Sunday, 24 July 2022

NigerianEye: “AAC presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore declares assets” plus 29 more

NigerianEye: “AAC presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore declares assets” plus 29 more

AAC presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore declares assets

Posted: 23 Jul 2022 08:36 PM PDT

 

The presidential candidate of the African Action Congress, AAC, Omoyele Sowore, has declared his assets ahead of the 2023 general elections.

Sowore made a declaration of his assets in a series of tweets via his Twitter handle on Saturday.

His tweets read: "I have two used cars: a Toyota Camry & Lexus RX 350, a home in my village worth maybe N5m, three iPhones, a Galaxy Note 10 Lite (if you could call those assets), SaharaReporters Media Group (don't know the worth as of today), a four-bedroom bungalow in New Jersey & nothing more!"

According to Sowore, the Federal government froze his bank accounts since 2019, after he was arrested over #RevolutionNow protest on August 3, 2019.

He said, "A bank account I operated in Nigeria had N4,800 left in before my arrest.

"I managed to open another with N463.00 as of this evening.

"I also recently opened a @capitalone US bank account that has in it about $300, I have a campaign account for the #Sowore2023 Presidential account.

"I have nothing more besides financial support that I occasionally get from friends and family (if those count as assets)," he added.

Sowore stressed that he has never operated any offshore account(s) or worked with a tax haven to hide his assets, adding that, "These are the assets I have in my entire life."

Sowore's assets declaration is coming on the heels of calls by Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) urging all presidential candidates, ahead of the February 2023 presidential election, to "urgently publish details of your assets and liabilities, and to publicly commit to rejecting vote buying and electoral bribery before and during the elections."

The human rights activist and pro-democracy campaigner also condemned vote-buying during the much-anticipated 2023 elections.

"I reject vote-buying on or before 2023 election date," Sowore added.

Arsenal thrash Chelsea 4-0 in pre-season friendly

Posted: 23 Jul 2022 08:34 PM PDT


Gabriel Jesus continued his impressive pre-season form with another goal as Arsenal thrashed Chelsea 4-0 in a friendly in Florida on Saturday.

Jesus, who only joined Arsenal from Manchester City earlier this month, took his goal tally to four goals in three games for his new club in a clinical win for the Gunners in front of 63,811 fans at Orlando's Camping World Stadium.

It was another encouraging performance for Mikel Arteta's side, who took control of the game with two first half goals after dominating the opening 45 minutes.

Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel could not hide his anger during a lacklustre first half display from his team, who were repeatedly exposed by Arsenal's nimble counter-attacking.


Chelsea had one promising attack after five minutes when new signing Raheem Sterling played Timo Werner into space, but French defender William Saliba snuffed out the danger with a solid covering tackle.

Arsenal should have opened the scoring moments later, when Gabriel Martinelli burst clear on the counter.

The Brazilian passed to Bukayo Saka but the English international's shot was saved by Chelsea goalkeeper Edouard Mendy.


The Arsenal pressure finally told in the 15th minute with a goal that came after Chelsea's Nathaniel Chalobah surrendered possession with a misplaced pass that went straight to Granit Xhaka.

The Swiss international played a superb first time ball into Jesus who coolly chipped over the advancing Mendy to make it 1-0.

Martin Odegaard made it 2-0 to the Gunners in the 36th minute with another well-worked move.

Martinelli's pass found the Norwegian playmaker in space inside the Chelsea area, and the attacking midfielder turned smoothly and tucked a low finish past Mendy.

Chelsea's best chance of a lacklustre half came in stoppage time when Mason Mount curled a shot from the edge of the area which beat Aaron Ramsdale but crashed back off a post.

Arsenal extended their lead midway through the second half when Saka buried a rebound from close range after Mendy parried Xhaka's long-range strike.

Arsenal continued to create chances but had to wait until injury time for their fourth goal when Albert Sambi Lokonga headed past Mendy after a superb cross from the right by Portuguese international Cedric.


 
AFP

BBNaija S7: Meet the 'Level Up' housemates (PHOTOS)

Posted: 23 Jul 2022 08:44 PM PDT



Themed 'Level Up' this season's housemates will be battling and competing for the grand prize of N100M worth of gifts for the next 71 days.


These housemates are from different backgrounds and it will interesting to see how they interact and stay together in one house for the next 10 weeks.


Here are the housemates who will be keeping you all glued to your TV screens in the next 10 weeks.


Groovy



Stanley Orakwe says he is bringing a lot of fun, and dynamism to the show.


"I believe I'm a very creative person, I believe I have a very infectious smile. I am, not a fighter but a lover. I am single and ready to mingle," he says.


He hails from Anambra state The 6ft 5 tall says he is bringing vibes, drama and laughter to the house


Beauty



Beauty says she a is bringing all the realness to the show. She says she is very straightforward person, very expressive and true to herself.


She also says she is a very good cook. She says she does not believe in love at first sight. Beauty hails from Taraba state and is a former beauty queen. She says she's bringing high energy to the house.


Khalid




Khalid hails from Plateau state and plays basketball. He says he has great communication skills. He is a great artist and boxer. He doesn't believe in love at first sight, he'd love to meet and get to know the person. Khalid says he is single and not searching.


Ilebaye




Ilebaye describes herself as adventurous and controversial. She hails from Kogi state. She says she's bringing the Gen Z drama. Ilebaye says she's a lover but not going to be a shipper.


Cyph



Cyph is a tech bro who loves life as it comes. He says he'll be bringing cruise and drama. He loves food and also believes in love at first sight. He plans to mingle with the other housemates. He hails from Mbaise in Imo State.


Amaka


Amaka hails from Anambra state. She is in the game to win the money. She is an extremist who would go hard or go home. She says she is a go-getter who goes from whatever she wants. She hopes to disappoint anyone who believes a man will win this year's season.


Kess




Kess says he is bringing good vibes. The married man says he doesn't believe in love at first sight. He will be leaving his marriage aside to concentrate on the game. He hopes to pick it up from where he left it when he returns.


Daniella




Daniella is a 22-year-old poet who doesn't like drama. The twin hopes to get recognition as a poet. She is very open, sincere, a jack of all trades and a master of some. She doesn't entirely believe in love on love at first sight. She hails from Obudu in Cross River state


Pharmsavi




Saviour says he is super confident with an amazing sense of humour. He believes the platform will showcase his acting passion. The pharmacist says he is in the house to show love. He is a lover of peace and has never been a fan of crisis.


Phyna


Phyna says she is short-tempered. She is bringing a lot of energy, vibe and drama. Phyna says drama for her could mean violence. She is also bringing something that nobody has ever seen on the show. She is not a believer in falling in love at first sight. She is from Edo state.


Bryann




Bryann says he can be annoying on purpose. Bryann says he is in the show to showcase all his talents. He is bringing energy and drama. He is very comfortable in his skin. He loves making music. He does not believe in love at first sight. He is a single pringle and may be ready to mingle.


Christy O




Christy O enjoys sarcasm as a way of entertaining and annoying people. She says she is all shades of fun. She can never be caught off guard. She doesn't believe in love at first sight because she doesn't want to 'chop breakfast.' She hails from Ondo state.

APC stakeholders seek Abdullah Adamu’s intervention in deputy governorship nomination crisis

Posted: 23 Jul 2022 10:13 AM PDT



Stakeholders in the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Zone C of Benue State on Saturday called for the quick intervention of the National Chairman of the party, Senator Abdullah Adamu in the crisis ravaging the party over the selection of a deputy governorship candidate for the 2023 election.


The stakeholders warned that unless the Adamu-led national leadership wades into the dispute and amicably and objectively resolves the matter, the party might be heading for the rocks in the coming election.


The grouse of the stakeholders arose from the way the Idoma nation was denied the opportunity to produce the governorship candidate for the 2023 election.


The Idomas and their Igede counterparts had agitated for the governorship seat this time around having been denied the opportunity in the past 47 years the state was created.


However, the crisis currently rocking the party is on the selection of the deputy governorship candidate where attempts are being made to deny the Zone C Senatorial District the opportunity to recommend a candidate of their choice.


Rather than allowing the Idoma nation to decide and recommend a suitable candidate, attempts are being made using Senator Jack Tilley Gyado and Chief Simon Shango, both Tiv by tribe to impose a former Minister of State for Niger Delta, Hon Sam Ode whose mother is of the Tiv lineage with the governorship candidate and state leader of the party, Senator George Akume.


The stakeholders recalled that the scenario played out in the 2019 election during which APC lost woefully in Benue State.


The Zone C stakeholders drew the attention of the Adamu-led national leadership to the roles played by the same people during the last governorship primary which has attracted nine different Court cases against the party


The Stakeholders appealed to the APC national leaders to wade into the dispute and stop those making the unpopular move to impose a deputy governorship candidate at the detriment of the senatorial district.


They warned that the party might witness defections unless concerted efforts are made to stop injustice in the party in the state.


Meanwhile, the APC Elders in Benue South have denied a statement credited to "Committee of Wise Men" to the effect that Dr Sam Ode has been nominated as governorship running mate.


The statement signed by a former Senate President, Chief Ameh Ebute, and 13 others read in part "The attention of the APC elders in Benue South Senatorial District has been drawn to a News item published online on 22nd July, 2022 by TheNigerian News, purporting the nomination of Dr. Sam Ode as the running mate to the governorship candidate of APC in Benue State, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia. The news credited the purported nomination to a recommendation from the APC elders council referred to as 'Committee of Wise Men'.


"With the mandate of the APC elders in Benue South Senatorial District which slot it is to produce the Deputy Governorship Candidate for the party, I wish to state as follows:


"That the APC elders in Benue South were never consulted by any one on the purported nomination of Dr. Sam Ode as running mate to the APC Governorship Candidate.


"That no elder of the party met under any committee of Wise Men or APC Elders' Council to do any discussion on the choice of running mate to the APC governorship candidate on 21st July, 2022 as claimed in the news.


"That APC Elders' Council in Benue South Senatorial District is yet to be constituted after it's dissolution by the current state working committee of the party on assumption of office.


"That Chief John Ochoga is not the Chairman of any APC Elders' Council in Benue South Senatorial District as the Elders Council has not been constituted after its dissolution.


"That the purported nomination of Dr. Sam Ode as contained in the news is a deliberate attempt by mischief makers to cause tension and disharmony in the party in order to undermine our victory in the coming election.


"That the APC Elders are having an emergency meeting on Saturday, 23rd July, 2022 to address the ugly development in order to prevent the repeat of the electoral misfortune suffered by our party in the state 2019".


Those who signed the statement are Senator Ameh Ebute, Gen. Lawrence Onoja, Chief Stephen Lawani, Alhaji Usman Abubakar, Chief Audu Ogbeh, Gen. Chris Garuba, Engr. Morgan Okwoche, Chief Ameh Udoh, Prince Obande Omoi, Comrade Abba Yaro, Hon. Nick Eworo, Chief Johnson Inalegwu Agada, Chief Edwin Anyebe and Hon. Philip Achegblu.

FULL STATEMENT: Tinubu analyzes ‘six lies’ in Atiku’s recent interview, lambasts PDP candidate

Posted: 23 Jul 2022 10:11 AM PDT

 


The All Progressives Congress, APC, presidential candidate, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has accused his Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, counterpart, Atiku Abubakar of lying in his recent interview.

 

Recall that Atiku, former Nigerian Vice President who was featured on Arise TV on Friday, spoke on several issues bedeviling the nation particularly in regards to the forthcoming presidential elections.

 

Atiku had during the TV programme, alleged that he declined Tinubu's move to be his running mate in 2007 over the same faith ticket.

 

He asserted that when he got the presidential ticket of the Action Congress of Nigeria, ACN, in 2007, Tinubu, one of the founders of the party, insisted to be his running mate but he declined in a bid to avoid having a Muslim-Muslim ticket.

 

Atiku further opined that his stand against the Muslim-Muslim ticket formed the fundamental disagreement between him and Asiwaju from 2007 till date.

 

However, a statement issued on Saturday by the Director, Media & Communication, Tinubu Campaign Organisation, Bayo Onanuga, said Atiku's response to questions during the interview indicated that he is not ready for the job.

 

The statement pointed out six areas the PDP candidate allegedly lied.

 

Full statement reads:

 

Mr Presidential candidate: Lincoln did not contest US Presidency five or six times, Takeaways from Atiku Abubakar bungled interview on ARISE Television

 

We have watched Alhaji Atiku Abubakar's interview on ARISE Television and were extremely shocked by the many lies and ignorance displayed by the Peoples Democratic Party's presidential candidate.

 

"In the interview, Alhaji Atiku exposed himself as a man who is not prepared for the job he is applying for and a man who can not be entrusted with our commonwealth. He was flippant in his response to important questions about his record of service and how he made money while serving in Customs. He muddled up facts and exhibited befuddling absence of mind.

 

"Here are our takeaways from the bungled interview:

 

1. PDP candidate is a law breaker: It was most shocking Atiku admitted that he cheated the system for decades and engaged in gross misconduct as a government worker. As a customs officer at the Idi-Iroko border, Atiku revealed that he ran a commercial taxi service, claiming 'there is no law stopping public officers from doing business in Nigeria". He punched harder, claiming there is no conflict of interest in doing so.

 

We found this to be untrue.

 

Every officer in the civil service is expected to comply with a code of conduct and service rules which bar civil and public servants from engaging in private business while in government employment to the detriment of the service he/she is employed to render to the public. The 1999 constitution further codifies this in Part I, Fifth Schedule, Section of 2 (b).

 

It says a public officer shall not, except where he is not employed on full-time basis engage or participate in the management or running of any private business, profession or trade. The rules however allow a public officer to engage in farming.

 

We wonder which rule or which law Atiku was relying upon for his gross misconduct as a public officer. It is our considered view that Atiku gamed the system all through his career in public service, culminating in his founding of the Intel Logistics along with Late Shehu Yar'Adua and some Italians, even while he was still in the employment of the Nigeria Customs Service.

 

2. Poor Knowledge of key sectors of the economy: We also found it surprising that the PDP presidential candidate does not know the contribution of the oil and gas industry to Nigeria's GDP. He claimed the sector represents 20% of our national GDP whereas it is below 10 percent and it is still falling owing to the growth of the non-oil sector under the current All Progressives Congress led administration of President Muhammadu Buhari.

 

3. False Data from Egypt: Atiku Abubakar wanted to impress his audience with his supposed knowledge of international affairs. He ended up embarrassing himself with false data he cited from Egypt. We found his claim that Egypt has 2 million police officers on the streets to be untrue. Various sources put the number at about 500,000 for a population of 104 million and not 80 million as falsely claimed by Atiku.

 

4. Rotational Presidency: Asked to justify why the PDP jettisoned Section 3c of its own constitution which enshrines power rotation between the North and South, Atiku tried to fudge his answer by focussing on Governor Nyesom Wike and his effort to reconcile with him after he, a northerner snatched the presidential ticket that ought to have been taken by a southerner. While Atiku was playing to the gallery on APC's Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket, he didn't see seeking to be President after 8years of a President from his part of Nigeria as politics of exclusion.

 

Probed further, Atiku provided several contradictory answers. In one breath, he said power rotation is not in the constitution. In another breath, he said the PDP has never "micro zoned any position'. Then he admitted that the party has always rotated power between the North and the South. Atiku's justification as to why he became PDP's presidential candidate, instead of a southerner is a perfect example in ellipsis: "In politics", he said, "we negotiate power through negotiations(Sic)". Whatever that means.

 

Atiku, ever an expert in not telling the truth also did not come clean over his once-upon a time preference for same-faith ticket. In 1993, after Atiku and Kingibe lost to MKO Abiola in the SDP presidential primary in Jos, Atiku was the choice of the Yar'Adua camp to become Abiola's running mate. Abiola overlooked him and picked the more cerebral diplomat and bureaucrat, Babagana Kingibe. In all the tonnes of biographies written about him, there was no where he said he opposed Shehu Yar'Adua's support for his candidacy as Abiola's VP. He was not against it, since it favoured him. Now, it is politically convenient and opportunistic for him to oppose the Tinubu-Shettima ticket.

 

5. Political Credentials: Most reprehensible was Atiku's lies about how many times he ran to become the governor of Adamawa or old Gongola state.

 

Mr. Presidential candidate, in case you don't know due to your limited education, you run for an office, only, when you are on the ballot in an election. Your signifying interest in an office does not mean the same as running for the office. From available records, the first time you contested the governorship election in your state was in 1999. Your name entered the ballot for the first time and you won.

 

6. Poor grasp of history: Atiku Abubakar also exhibited poor Knowledge of history when he claimed that Abraham Lincoln, one of America's famous leaders, contested the presidency five to six times before he eventually won.

 

This is a beer parlour tale that has been recycled over time. Lincoln contested the U.S. presidency twice. He ran in 1860 and 1864 and won both, before he was assassinated on 15 April, 1865.

 

The false story about Lincoln's failed presidential bids sprang from his previous failed state and national elections, from his state of Illinois. They were not the same as America's presidential election.

 

According to historians, Lincoln lost his first election in 1832 for Illinois state legislature. In 1834, he ran again and won.

 

In 1843 he ran for Congress. He lost. Three years later in 1846, Lincoln ran for Congress again – this time he won and went to Washington. From established history, in 1848, Lincoln ran for re-election to Congress and lost. In 1854, he ran for Senate of the United States. He lost. Lincoln also made another failed bid for the U.S. Senate from Illinois in 1858. He lost to Democrat Steven Douglas.

 

Our conclusion is that Alhaji Atiku Abubakar is ill-prepared to be President of Nigeria if he could bungle a Television interview that was planned well ahead of the day and time the duo of Dr. Reuben Abati and Ms.Tundun Abiola conducted it.

 

We expected the PDP presidential candidate to be well informed on any issue before coming on national television to expose himself to avoidable ridicule.

WAFCON 2022: Eguavoen hails Super Falcons despite failed title defence

Posted: 23 Jul 2022 10:10 AM PDT



Technical director of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Augustine Eguavoen has kind words for the Super Falcons despite the team's disappointing showing at the 2022 Africa Women's Cup of Nations in Morocco.


The nine-time champions lost in the semi-final to host nation Morocco via penalties.


The Super Falcons also failed to claim third position, going down to a 1-0 defeat against the Copper Queens of Zambia in Casablanca on Friday night.


It's the third time the West Africans will not be competing in the final of the WAFCON.


Despite the team's failure to claim a 10th title in Morocco, Eguavoen praised the players for their effort in the competition.


"Super Falcons🇳🇬👸, Raise your heads up high. This is a very young team that will continue to grow. There were a lot of brilliant performances on display in Morocco. Massive well done on Qualification for our Ninth straight FIFA World Cup. Be very proud," Eguavoen wrote on his Twitter handle.

WHO declares monkeypox outbreak ’emergency of international concern’

Posted: 23 Jul 2022 10:08 AM PDT

 


The World Health Organisation (WHO) has declared the monkeypox outbreak in more than 50 countries an "emergency of international concern."

 

WHO chief, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said the outbreak is concentrated among men who have sex with men.

 

"Although I am declaring a public health emergency of international concern, for the moment this is an outbreak that is concentrated among men who have sex with men, especially those with multiple sexual partners.

 

"That means that this is an outbreak that can be stopped with the right strategies in the right groups," he added.

 

WHO said declaring an emergency is the highest alert level for health threats but it has no immediate consequences.

 

"It is meant to alert governments to take action to protect their populations," he said.

 

The outbreak of the viral disease monkeypox was confirmed in May 2022, beginning with a cluster of cases found in the United Kingdom.

 

From May 18 onwards, cases were reported from an increasing number of countries and regions, predominantly in Europe, but also in North and South America, Asia, Africa, and Australia.

 

As of July 23, there have been a total of 17,186 confirmed cases. Since the beginning of 2022, 72 deaths have been reported, all in Africa.

Nigeria safe, ignore liars – Lai Mohammed to investors

Posted: 23 Jul 2022 09:57 AM PDT

 


Minister of Information, Lai Mohammed has informed business people that Nigeria is safe for investment.

 

Mohammed told them to ignore the demarketing campaign being waged against the country by the political opposition.

 

He made the remarks at an Investors' Fair, tagged "Africa Walk", organized by the UNICORN Group in its Lagos Campus.

 

Mohammed said lies were being promoted by those against the Muhammadu Buhari administration

 

The official insists it is not true that Nigeria is a war zone or there is religious persecution in the country.

 

"We were elected on the three pillars of the economy, security, and anti-corruption.

 

"We have not left any stone unturned to turn things around despite the numerous challenges," he said.

 

Mohammed said Boko Haram was controlling a large swath of territory in the North-East before the current government.

 

The Boko Haram sect and Islamic State's West Africa Province (ISWAP) have been "severely degraded", he added.

 

"We are also tackling banditry with the same vigour with which we have taken on Boko Haram and ISWAP.

 

"It is a matter of time for bandits to be decimated too", Mohammed assured.

Why 2023 election will be most decisive for Nigeria – Northern elders spokesman

Posted: 23 Jul 2022 09:54 AM PDT

 


The spokesman of Northern Elders Forum, NEF, Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, has highlighted reasons the 2023 general elections would be the most decisive since 1999.

 

Baba-Ahmed said the 2023 elections would show if Nigerians have decided to reverse the journey to destruction.

 

He pointed out that the next general election would show if Nigeria would sink towards destruction.

 

The NEF spokesman made the remark while urging Nigerians to ensure they take advantage of the remaining seven days and register for their Permanent Voters Cards, PVCs.

 

The time frame issued by the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, for registration and collection of PVCs would end in the next seven days.

 

Baba-Ahmed, in a tweet wrote: "2023 elections are the most decisive since 1999.They will show whether we have decided to reverse the journey to destruction, or we will sink irretrievably towards destruction.

 

"Will you be part of those who will decide,or will you watch others do it.Register and vote.7 days left."

2023: Catholic Priest writes INEC, demands inclusion of candidates’ photos on ballot papers

Posted: 23 Jul 2022 09:54 AM PDT

 


Nigerian Catholic Missionary Priest currently serving in Malawi, Fr Kelvin Ugwu has written to the Independent National Electoral Commission, demanding the inclusion of party candidates running for different positions on the ballot papers.

 

In a letter posted on his verified Facebook page, Fr Kelvin argued that Nigerians are not voting based on political parties but rather, the personality of the various candidates, stressing that the ballot papers should not be limited to only the party logo.

 

Sharing an image of a Malawian ballot paper, the popular priest said almost all the countries in Africa have both the face, and the name of the candidate running for different elections on the ballot paper.

 

He wrote, "Dear INEC Nigeria,

 

"Our ballot paper should be like this because in the true sense of it, it is actually the individual with his vice that we are voting for.

 

"All the elections conducted in Nigeria in the past, the ballot paper just carried only party logos. But it is not the party we vote for that leads us after the elections but the individual.

 

"Almost all the countries in Africa have both the face, the name of the candidate, his/her running mate, and the party logo on their ballot papers. Please do this for Nigerians".

2023: Atiku a pathological liar, asked me to be his running mate – Tinubu

Posted: 23 Jul 2022 09:10 AM PDT


Bola Tinubu, the All Progressives Congress, APC, presidential candidate, has accused his counterpart from the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Atiku Abubakar of lying over his comment on Muslim-Muslim ticket.


Tinubu said Atiku asked him to be his running mate in 2007 but he refused.


Recall that Atiku had accused Tinubu of being a lover of the Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket.


Atiku, who was the Action Congress, AC, presidential candidate in 2007, had said Tinubu wanted to be his running mate then.


The former Vice President said his refusal and insistence on a Southern Christian led to a breakdown in his relationship with Tinubu.


Reacting, the APC presidential candidate accused Atiku of being a "pathological" liar.


In a statement by Tunde Rahman, his media aide, the APC candidate said: " Atiku may want to be president. However, all he has shown is that he is a pathological liar.


"Let me say openly that Atiku offered me the vice presidential ticket in 2007. Let me also say that my religion has not changed. When he offered the position to me, I was a Muslim and I believe he was aware of my religious faith at the time.


"Atiku's calculations and deceit had nothing to do with religion or his sensitivity to it. His conduct has everything to do with what we discovered about his paucity of character and love of intrigue."

2023: Pastor speaks on endorsing Tinubu, speaking against CAN

Posted: 23 Jul 2022 07:17 AM PDT


Pastor Tunde Bakare, the General Overseer of Citadel Global Community Church formerly known as Latter Rain Assembly, Lagos, has denied reports that he endorsed the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential candidate, Bola Ahmed Tinubu.


Bakare who was also an APC presidential aspirant made the rebuttal in a statement debunking insinuations that he was working against the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) on the Muslim-Muslim ticket by Tinubu and his running mate, Kashim Shettima.


The Cleric in the statement shared on his Facebook page described the allegations as absolute lies.


"My attention has been drawn to the viral but concocted and ridiculous statements credited to me, by some unscrupulous writers and bloggers. Amongst other things, I was quoted to have said that the agitations by the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), were ploys by the opposition party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), to force a weak candidate on APC.


"In addition to this, I was alleged to have said that CAN wanted to lure APC into presenting a weak candidate. The spurious writers also alleged that I stressed that Christians are righteous people who behave like Christ, and that CAN are politicians who behave like PDP.


"As if the poorly strewn lies were not enough, I was quoted as saying that Tinubu is my candidate. Isn't this the same Tinubu that I announced to all and sundry at the APC Presidential Convention that I was not stepping down for? He has suddenly become my candidate!


"I wish to state unequivocally that the statements are absolute lies. There was nowhere I granted anyone any interview or preached on any platform, where I said the ludicrous statements. I challenge anyone who is in possession of the video or audio file of the statements to please put it in the public space.


He noted that he is a nation builder and will not in any way create real or imaginary division among Nigerians through the medium of political parties or religion.


Bakare urged Nigerians to disregard the statements, claiming it does not in any way represent his position

NYSC: IGP Usman Baba told to arrest Senator Stella Oduah immediately

Posted: 23 Jul 2022 07:10 AM PDT


Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria, HURIWA, has called for the immediate arrest and prosecution of former Aviation Minister, Stella Oduah.


The rights group also sought the disqualification of Oduah as Peoples Democratic Party, PDP's candidate for the Anambra North Senatorial Election in 2023 for alleged perjury over her claims around her participation in the one-year National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) scheme.


This is following NYSC's claim that Oduah "after the (three weeks) orientation course, absconded and never completed the national service."


According to NYSC, "The consequence of this is that she is not qualified for the issuance of the certificate of national service."


However, Oduah had debunked the claim, stressing that she completed her national youth service.


Citing a letter dated 11th January, 2017, Oduah stated that she served under NECA in 1982.


Oduah had also on October 23, 2014, deposed to an affidavit that she lost the original copy of her NYSC certificate, a claim that is contrary to the NYSC statement that she absconded in 1982.


To this end, HURIWA, in a statement signed by Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, its National Coordinator, said "[We] demand the arrest of Stella Oduah by the Inspector General of Police, Usman Baba, for alleged perjury following the documentary evidence of NYSC.


"Failure by the IGP to do this, HURIWA, will by next week, institute a suit to compel the IGP through a MANDAMUS to investigate, arrest Stella Oduah and charge her for alleged perjury based on the documentary evidence already publicised by the NYSC. This is a critical issue that the IGP ought to investigate if the IGP is patriotic."


Meanwhile, the human rights advocacy group also tackled the Nigeria Employers' Consultative Association (NECA) for opposing the NYSC Trust Fund (Establishment) Bill recently passed by the National Assembly that imposed a levy of one per cent of the net profit of companies and organised private sector operating a business in Nigeria, amongst others


"We condemned NECA for opposing setting up of NYSC TRUST FUND that is meant to create skills for youths and demand to know if the association is being sponsored by Senator Stella Oduah whom NECA has been defending since her certificate saga despite overwhelming evidence from NYSC that the former minister never completed her NYSC but absconded.


"NECA should stop doing the bidding of Oduah who boasted to deal with NYSC for exposing her alleged perjury. An organisation like NECA should not be politicised by moneybags for the economic porridge of a few allegedly greedy and corrupt individuals.


"The President, Muhammadu Buhari should ignore NECA's opposition and assent to the NYSC Trust Fund Bill already passed by the National Assembly. This fund when established will cement President Muhammadu Buhari's name in the sands of times."


HURIWA said there is an abundance of evidence already presented to the National Assembly by reputable Nigerians and organisations including the NYSC'S Management, CSOs, youth associations amongst a plethora of other stakeholders that the Trust Fund is being set up to address the infrastructural deficit besetting the scheme in the areas of camp renovation, maintenance; upgrading, building, and maintenance of corps members lodges.


The decision to establish the NYSC Trust Fund was conceived during a meeting held with some of the scheme's stakeholders. The idea of the trust fund was strongly supported by civil societies, the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), and the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON).


HURIWA maintained also that: "Statutorily, the NYSC scheme as it were, has a tripartite funding arrangement – the Federal, State and Local Governments, with each having varying degree of responsibilities.


"Over the years, the scheme has equally partnered governmental and non-governmental institutions in the area of providing start-up capitals.


"This is for corps members to fund their business initiatives under the NYSC Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme which is a direct answer to the often asked rhetorical question: After the NYSC what next?'' he said.


HURIWA further affirmed that THE NYSC YOUTHS TRUST FUND when established as a legacy project by President Muhammadu Buhari will inevitably create resources for a greater percentage of corps members trained under the NYSC skills acquisition programme to start-up their businesses.


The bill which has been passed by both chambers of the National Assembly mandates businesses operating in Nigeria to remit one per cent of their net profit to fund the trust fund.

Yemi Alade reportedly denied visa over fears she ‘won’t leave’ Canada

Posted: 23 Jul 2022 06:57 AM PDT

 


Yemi Alade, the Nigerian singer, has been denied a visa to perform in Canada over fears she might not leave the country.

Le Devoir, the French-language newspaper published in Montreal and distributed in Quebec and throughout Canada, reports that the songstress will be unable to perform at a festival's final closing concert on Sunday.

The 33-year-old Afropop star is said to be one of the headliners of the Festival international Nuits d'Afrique.

Commenting on the development, Suzanne Rousseau, the festival co-founder, said the visa denial was due to "financial reasons, and for fears that the group wouldn't leave Canada."

Rousseau also lamented that the process of applying for a visitor's visa has been difficult for "at least five years."

"Finally, we got an answer saying the musicians were refused, saying they have to guarantee that they have enough financial means that will make them go back to their country," she said.

 


With Alade's performance cancelled, Rousseau said the Nigerian will be replaced by Sampa The Great, the Zambian-born Australian-based female rapper.

 

In a Twitter post, Alade, who recently released a single 'Begging',  announced that she won't be headlining the concert in Canada. 

Nigerian online prayer platform, NSPPD tops global chart

Posted: 23 Jul 2022 06:11 AM PDT

 


A Nigerian prayer platform, New Season Prophetic Prayers and Declarations led by Pastor Jerry Eze, has emerged as the number one online prayer platform and number one 'Daily Most Super Chatted Gospel Channel' in the world with a record 313,768,909 or 889,627 chats per day.

 

With just over 800,000 subscribers, the NSPPD platform ranked a few points below Bishop Leonardo's channel with 11.4m subscribers.

 

The prayer programme which streams daily on Facebook, YouTube, Instagram and Mixlr topped the global chart with a record 113,689,464 views.

 

According to the latest data from Playboard.co, the NSPPD platform grossed 7,308, 995 views in the last 30 days at an average of 87,544 views per day.

 

Playboard, a video analytics platform collects the data for YouTube channels worldwide to determine and announce reliable rankings.

 

With 10,619,436 registered channels and 626,642,389 videos, the channel analyses tens of millions of data every day.

 

A statement from the NSPPD  on Friday, said it was also ranked as the second 'most live viewers' gospel channel in the world and the 'most watched live channel' in Nigeria leading in daily, weekly and monthly parameters.

 

Additionally, the NSPPD online prayer platform emerged the most popular gospel channel in Nigeria daily.

 

Playboard records further indicate that the NSPPD posts about 1,158 videos or 12 per week.

 

Reacting to the latest ranking, the NSPPD founder appreciated God for the feat achieved by the NSPPD platform within a short period.

 

Eze said, "I am shocked and I submit to the Mighty Works of God He is doing through this platform. This is definitely not me. It's simply a move of God. God curse the day we take this Glory. Reign King Jesus! Reign Lord."

2023: Emergence of Obi, Kwankwaso may lead to presidential election re-run – US delegates

Posted: 23 Jul 2022 06:11 AM PDT

 


A delegation of the United States-based National Democratic Institute (NDI) and International Republican Institute (IRI) has hinted at the possibility of a re-run of the presidential election in 2023.

 

The delegation of the NDI/IRI, led by Secretary of State for the State of Ohio, USA, Mr. Frank LaRose stated this yesterday during their visit to Nigeria.

 

The delegation claimed that Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso of the New Nigerian Peoples Party, NNPP and Peter Obi of the Labour Party may force the 2023 contest into a re-run for the first time in the country.

 

Mr Frank maintained that the forthcoming elections are a departure from some of the political dynamics experienced in the country previously.

 

The report said, "If a third party draws sufficient support, a runoff presidential election could be a real possibility for the first time since the transition to democracy, adding complexity to the 2023 elections."

 

"The emergence of Mr Peter Obi, former Anambra State governor and presidential candidate for the Labour Party, LP and Rabiu Kwankwaso, former Kano governor and presidential candidate for the New Nigeria People's Party NNPP, as viable 'Third Forces' has excited many young Nigerians".

‘Transformation of NNPC shrouded in secrecy’ — Atiku hits FG

Posted: 23 Jul 2022 06:11 AM PDT

 


Atiku Abubakar, former vice-president and presidential candidate of the Peoples Democracy Party (PDP), says the transition of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation is shrouded in secrecy.

 

Abubakar said this in an interview with AriseTV on Friday.

 

On Tuesday, President Muhammadu Buhari unveiled the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) Limited.

 

Buhari had said the transformation would strengthen the capacity and market relevance of Nigeria's oil industry — regulated by the Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA), following the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021.

 

But the PDP presidential candidate said he does not know how the transition is being done, adding that the international communities have not also seen it in a transparent manner.

 

"Yes, the government has announced that it is started privatising the NNPC but a lot needs to be done. Because it appears that it is being done secretly. In other words, otherwise, nobody, Nigerians and other members of the international community have not seen it in a transparent manner," Atiku said.

 

"If you ask me honestly, I do not know how it's being done, and by whom what is the scope of the privatisation? How much is being privatised, and how much is being retained by the government?"

 

 

Controversy trail proposed ban on motorcycles by federal government

Posted: 23 Jul 2022 06:07 AM PDT


Controversies have begun to trail the federal government's plan to place a ban on motorcycles across the country.


Recall that after the Federal Executive Council meeting on Tuesday, Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, told Journalists at the state house that the government was considering a ban on Motorcycles, claiming it was being used to commit crimes across the country.


However, some Nigerians who spoke to newsmen, in Kaduna on Saturday, said the federal government has deviated from arresting and prosecuting the main financiers of terrorists, bandits and Boko haram and has now moved to punish the poor masses who have no means of livelihood but rely on motorcycles to feed, clothe and provide for their families.


They alleged that the APC-led government always target the poor masses, rather than arresting the rich who use criminals to terrorize the poor and in most cases kill them through banditry.


Bola Ahmed, District Head of Kujama, Kaduna in his lamentation said, "Our children use motorcycles to feed us. They have no business with bandits. In most cases, the bandits trekked several kilometres to attack our people."


He said the banning of motorcycles will have no effect on bandits because even those terrorists using motorcycles, are using them inside the forest.


Mr. Yunusa Madaki noted that the federal government will only suffer the innocent masses if it bans the use of bikes because bandits will still use their motorcycles, parked a few kilometres, before attacking residents. If they kidnap, they trek for kilometres to where they parked before they move on.


Mrs. Rhoha Acheneje who was a victim of bandits attack told newsmen that all instruments, including motorcycles, guns are within the forest.


She asked the government to set up Special Squads that will move to the forest, and recover all those exhibits.


Didam Auta said the motorcycle ban will affect poor people more, as they will trek to the market, carry their foodstuff on their heads. Even civil servants find it difficult to reach their respective offices.


" In cases of emergency, those in interior villages seek the help of Motorcyclists to convey their sick ones or pregnant women to the hospital. Once banned, manyl Nigerians will suffer." He said.

Ekiti records 74 new cases of COVID-19 – Health Commissioner

Posted: 23 Jul 2022 05:24 AM PDT


Ekiti State has recorded seventy-four new cases of COVID-19 in the state.


In a statement in Ado Ekiti, the State Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Dr Oyebanji Filani explained that the new cases were recorded after the Eld- EL- Kabir celebration.


The health commissioner noted that there was a significant decline in the number of positive COVID-19 cases and low occupancy in the isolation centres before the Eid El Kabir celebrations which occurred early this month.


He appealed to all residents of the state to adhere strictly to the government's public health and social measures to prevent the spread of the virus.


Filani said the following measures should be observed to mitigate the spread of the virus, wearing of facemasks in public gatherings, maintaining hand hygiene through proper handwashing or use of alcohol-based hand rub, social or physical distancing


Others are reporting at the nearest health facility when sick, getting tested and isolated if positive and adhering to COVID-19 measures by banks and other institutions.


He said vaccination remains the most effective means of curbing the pandemic and encouraged all residents of the state to get vaccinated.


Dr Filani confirmed that a total of 384,730 persons were fully vaccinated in the state.


He explained that the state government had trained and deployed over 80 mobile vaccination teams and 177 health facility-based teams across all LGAs in the state.


He encouraged citizens to visit the vaccination post to get their complete COVID-19 jabs.

Suspected cult group murders Osun Prince

Posted: 23 Jul 2022 05:10 AM PDT


A son of Oba Abdulahi Okunloye the Olofa of Ofatedo, Yinusa Okunloye has been killed by a suspected cult group.


A 43-year-old Okunloye was murdered in the wee hours of Saturday at his residence in Ofatedo, Egbedore Local Government area of Osun State.


Sources told newsmen that the prince was called out of his house around 12am on Saturday and was shot in the chest.


Fear gripped the hearts of people in the community as some men in a car welding guns were spotted around 8am on Saturday at Ofatedo.


There was a roadblock as at 8am in the community while businesses were closed down.


The Osun State Police Command Public Relations Officer, SP Yemisi Opalola confirmed the incident.


She said a group of suspected cultists numbering three invaded Olofa street, Ofatedo and called Okunloye out of his room and shot him in his chest.


She disclosed that the prince later died and his remains deposited at UNIOSUN Teaching Hospital mortuary for autopsy.


Opalola said no arrest has been made but promised that "frantic efforts are on to arrest the suspects."

S_x for roles should be punishable under law – Mr Macaroni

Posted: 23 Jul 2022 04:40 AM PDT

 


Popular media personality and comedian, Mr Macaroji has called for an investigation into alleged s_x for role allegations in the Nigerian entertainment industry.

 

Macaroni in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) also said appropriate sanctions should be meted on culprits involved in the act.

 

He said it was disgusting and absolutely abominable and should not be swept under the carpet.

 

"I've always spoken against it, even before I attained this position being a public figure. I have kicked against it, I have a series of tweets against it, I have lots of content to speak against it, it is highly disrespectful and highly degrading, and it reeks of how much we have lost touch with humanity.

 

"People should get roles and jobs based on competence, based on the fact that they are able to deliver. How many people will you sleep with?"

 

He added that there should be consequences for such actions rather than turning a blind eye.

 

"There should be consequences for reprehensible behaviour to do better. If not, if they are found guilty, I want to believe there are appropriate punishments to address this.

 

"And it cuts across, it's not just s_x, somebody will ask you to go and bring money for a job; if they have money will they be looking for jobs, we shouldn't ruin the lives of others too," Macaroni said.

 

On advice for talents going through such, he advised that they stay true to themselves and remain consistent.

 

"For such up and coming artiste, take a look at Mr Macaroni, I will advise you to look at my life and my journey, success doesn't come once.

 

"I started acting as far back as 2012 or even 2010, but by God's grace, people started to know me in 2019, don't be in a hurry.

 

"Time and chance happen to all man, continue with your journey, success will not come to you on a platter of gold, you have to work for it.

 

"Don't believe that you have to sell your body or do anything inappropriate to get to that height, work hard and keep believing, by God's grace you will get to the desired height," he added

Woman ties son to pole, beat him with cutlass, lace his injury with pepper

Posted: 23 Jul 2022 04:38 AM PDT

 


The Police in Ovwian/Aladja Division in Udu Local Government Area of Delta State in collaboration with some human rights activists have rescued a physically abused young boy.

 

The mother of the victim, Naomi Esther Batubum who allegedly beat and inflicted bodily injuries on him was also arrested.

 

The incident occurred on Friday, July 22 at Otor-Udu in the Udu Local Government Area of Delta State.

 

The victim has been hospitalized.

 

The suspect had allegedly tied up her son to an electric pole, beat him up with iron and cutlass and laced the injuries she inflicted on him with pepper.

 

The Secretary of the Committee for the Defence of Human Rights, CDHR, Israel Joe disclosed this in a statement.

 

According to him, "Today being 22nd of July, a report from a Facebook follower got to our very comrade Israel Joe on how a woman in Otor-Udu tied up her son on an electric poll, beat him up with iron and cutlass and rub the child with pepper all over all the injury she inflicted on him.

 

"The Comrade immediately called the Ovwian/Aladja DPO CSP Shaba who then detailed a truck of Policemen along with few comrades, got the woman named Naomi Esther Batubum arrested and the child was rescued.

 

"The culprit is now detained at the police station while the child has been taken to the hospital. Thanks to all social media followers who kept drawing our attention to such issues."

Peter Obi visits Ikpeazu in Abia

Posted: 23 Jul 2022 03:49 AM PDT


Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate, Peter Obi visited Abia Governor, Okezie Ikpeazu on Saturday.


Obi made a trip to Ikpeazu's country home at Umuobiakwa, Obingwa local government area.


The governor's spokesman, Onyebuchi Ememanka issued a statement on the meeting.


Obi informed Ikpeazu that he was in Abia to attend an event at the Mater Dei Catholic Cathedral Umuahia.


The visit was said to be "in line with official courtesies and protocols".


"They also had a private breakfast session", Ememaka added.


Ikpeazu presented Obi with the first ever Abia State Long Term Development Plan and the Abia State Industrial Policy.


The documents were presented to him on Friday by ECOWAS Representative at the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO).

5 Boko Haram members, one Commander, Malam Isa, surrender to Nigerian Army

Posted: 23 Jul 2022 03:46 AM PDT


At least five Boko Haram terrorists including a Commander of Jama'at Ahl as-Sunnah lid-Da'wah wa'l-Jihad (JAS), Boko Haram, Malam Isa, have laid down their arms and surrendered to the troops of the Nigerian Army in the North East of Borno State.


An Intelligence Sources told Zagazola Makama, a Counter Insurgency Expert and Security Analyst in Lake Chad, that they surrendered to the troops of 73 Battalion, Operation Hadin Kai, on July 22, 2022.


The sources said "At about 200812A, the troops of Cashew plantation deployed at Valley Shuwa had received five surrendered Boko Haram terrorists.


"Preliminary investigation revealed that the insurgents were said to have come out from Gazuwa, an acclaimed new headquarters of the Boko Haram faction, located about 8 kilometres to Bama Local Government area.


The sources said that 29 women and children later came out and surrendered to troops after realising that the five commanders surrendered successfully without being killed.


He said all the surrendered terrorists would be received, processed and passed on to the relevant agencies of government for further assessment in line with extant provisions.


Maj. Gen. Christopher Musa, The Theatre Commander North East Joint Task Force of Operation Hadin Kai, has said more than 67, 000 repentant terrorists have surrendered to troops serving in various theatres of operation in the North-East region.


Musa noted that they include both combatants, non-combatants and their families.

There’s no rift between Shettima and el-Rufai –Uba Sani

Posted: 23 Jul 2022 03:12 AM PDT

 


Uba Sani, governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kaduna, says there is no rift between Kashim Shettima, the party's vice-presidential candidate, and Nasir el-Rufai, governor of Kaduna.

 

Sani said this in reaction to the rumour that the two men are having a "cold war".

 

Speaking at an event in Kaduna on Friday, the senator described the rumour as "malicious", saying the rumour mongers are ignorant of the cordial relationship Shettima and el-Rufai have.

 

The governorship candidate said Shettima has the full support of the Kaduna governor.

 

 "I want to deliver a goodwill message from my brother, Governor Nasir Ahmed el-Rufai of Kaduna state," he said.

 

"I want to also say here that Governor El-Rufai has total support for our brother, His Excellency, Senator Kashim Shettima; we have worked together, we are brothers and we are friends."

 

According to him, Kaduna will give Bola Tinubu, APC presidential candidate, and Shettima the highest votes in the country.

 

 "I assure you, and stand to be quoted anywhere, anytime that Kaduna state would deliver the highest votes for the Tinubu presidency in 2023," he said.

Everything about me is by accident – Obasanjo

Posted: 23 Jul 2022 02:37 AM PDT

 


Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has revealed that everything about him is accidental, except farming.

 

Obasanjo was a former military Head of State before he was elected as a civilian President in 1999.

 

But, the Balogun Owu said the only thing he did in life that did not come by happenstance is farming.

 

Speaking on Saturday on a live radio interview with Segun Odegbami on Eagles7 Sports 103.7 FM, Abeokuta, Obasanjo said he is always proud to be addressed as a farmer.

 

Odegbami had asked Obasanjo to speak about what he termed his "romance with farming".

 

In response, the former President said, "I don't like the word you used, 'romance with farming'. I am a farmer. What do you mean by romance? Everything I have done in my life is by accident. The only thing that is not accidental is farming. Every other thing that I've been is by accident. And you called that romance? No! What do you mean by romance?

 

"You know my beginning. I was born and bred in a village. I went to school by accident. My father just said, 'won't you do something different?' So I went into farming.

 

"When you look at countries that have made it, they developed on agriculture. First, for the purpose of food security; second, for the purpose of processing what they get from their farms, which is the beginning of industrialisation. Third, to give it out as export, which is for the purpose of foreign exchange; and fourth, as a means of generating employment for the youth."

Court refuses to recognize Umahi as APC senatorial candidate, orders fresh primary

Posted: 23 Jul 2022 02:35 AM PDT

 


A Federal High Court in Abakaliki, the Ebonyi State capital, has thrown out a suit filed by the governor of the state, Dave Umahi, asking the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to recognise him as an All Progressives Congress (APC) senatorial candidate.

 

In its ruling delivered on Friday, the court recognised Ann Agom-Eze, who came second in the May 28 senatorial primary for Ebonyi south.

 

According to NAN, the court, however, ordered INEC to conduct a fresh primary within 14 days for the district.

 

Umahi's counsel, Roy Nweze, had filed a suit against INEC at the federal high court, asking the court to compel the electoral body to recognise him as the senatorial candidate for the district.

 

Austin Umahi, brother to the governor, was declared the winner of the APC senatorial ticket for Ebonyi south.

 

According to NAN, another primary was held on June 9, during which Austin withdrew, and the Ebonyi governor reportedly contested unopposed and won.

 

However, although the APC had listed Dave Umahi as its senatorial candidate for Ebonyi north, he was excluded when INEC published the list of candidates for the 2023 elections.

 

Reacting to the development, Nnaemeka Nwonwu, who is counsel to Agom-Eze, expressed satisfaction over the judgment.

 

"Yes, the court has ordered APC to conduct a fresh primary to ratify the candidacy of our client, Ann Agom-Eze, who took the second position as governor's younger brother has withdrawn," Nwonwu said.

 

"The court has given 14 days from today, Friday, to conduct a fresh primary for the zone."

Tinubu: Details of Buhari’s meeting with APC stakeholders emerge

Posted: 23 Jul 2022 02:29 AM PDT

 


President Muhammadu Buhari, in Abuja on Friday, told stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) that the unity, security and prosperity of Nigeria would matter most to him beyond his days in office as President.

 

Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, the APC presidential candidate was not present as President Buhari hosted a delegation led by the party stakeholders at the State House.

 

Buhari expressed delight that the Party is on towards that eventuality.

 

This was disclosed in a statement by Femi Adesina, Special Adviser to the President.

 

The President thanked the delegation led by the National Chairman of the Party, Abdullahi Adamu, "for the kind words on my role in processes leading to the emergence of our candidate, and his running mate, for the Presidential election in February, next year.

 

"I want to thank you all for the roles you played in the build-up, first to our national convention earlier this year and later to the primary elections.

 

"You were all of one mind, wanting the best for the Party, with the candidate emerging in a free and fair manner.

 

"For us all, the cohesion and unity of the Party was the first priority, and ambition was second. I'm glad that you all saw the larger picture rather than narrow, self-serving interests," Buhari said.

 

Buhari recounted that when the presidential running mate, Sen. Kashim Shettima, was presented to him a few days ago, he had said he would reserve his comments till the handover ceremony on May 29, 2023, at Eagle Square.

 

"I still maintain that same position," Buhari said, hailing party members for acknowledging the many virtues that qualify Shettima for the noble position.

 

Buhari expressed confidence that Shettima would not disappoint the party and Nigerians at large.

 

The President also commended the Party for resolving to further mobilize more Nigerians, particularly youths, to register and get their Permanent Voters Cards (PVCs), saying, "It's the way to go."

 

Meanwhile, the National Chairman of the Party, the Chairman, the Progressives Governors Forum and Governor of Kebbi State, Abubakar Atiku Bagudu and Shettima, in separate remarks, expressed gratitude to Buhari for his exemplary leadership, which has strengthened the Party in the aftermath of the convention and primaries.

BBNaija: Excitement, drama, intrigues as reality show returns today

Posted: 23 Jul 2022 01:40 AM PDT


The countdown to the seventh season of the Big Brother Naija show ends today as, at about 7pm (WAT), Ebuka Obi-Uchendu will declare open the new season.


This will be the seventh edition and like previous instalments, this season promises to be full of love triangles, heated exchanges, shock evictions and intense competition to win N100 million worth of prizes.


During the build-up to the new edition, the organisers treated fans to an exclusive reunion show for last year's Shine Ya Eye edition.


The reunion took fans and viewers alike on a trip down memory lane while whetting their appetites for the new season.


Some housemates had returned with different agendas to launder their images or clear the air on certain perceptions and spill dirt on others


Just like the last seasons, this year's will be double launch shows; the first on Saturday, 23 July and the second on Sunday, 24 July 2022.


Also, there would be no SMS voting and there would be a return of the 'fan-favourite 'Ninjas' and a live studio audience.


In past editions, fans of different housemates were invited to the live eviction show on Sundays and 'Ninjas' were used to facilitate tasks but that was halted due to COVID-19 restrictions.


The grand prize for the new season tagged 'The only way up' is N100 million worth of prizes, the biggest in a single reality TV show reward on the continent.


Thirty lucky fans will also win N1 million each in the Fave Lock-In promo exclusive to DStv and GOtv customers.


Ebuka will host the show while Toke Makinwa will anchor the Buzz, an exclusive talk show on the various activities that will take place in the house.

Transfer: Ronaldo’s agent ‘very optimistic’ on deal to leave Man Utd for LaLiga

Posted: 23 Jul 2022 01:36 AM PDT


Cristiano Ronaldo's agent, Jorge Mendes, is doing everything possible to ensure the player leaves Manchester United for LaLiga this summer, according to reports.


Ronaldo is desperate to continue playing at the top level and winning trophies.


The 37-year-old does not want to continue at United, who will be playing in the Europa League in Erik ten Hag's first season in charge.


Chelsea, Bayern Munich and Real Madrid have all ruled themselves out of the running for Ronaldo.


The trio of clubs believe the Portugal captain would not fit into their wage structure or plans for the future.


But radio station El Lageuro (via Sports Illustrated) claim Mendes believes a transfer to Atletico Madrid can still go through.


As the issue is simply economic, the super agent feels it can be "fixed" with necessary negotiations.


Mendes is expecting Atletico will allow a few players to leave in the next month or so. This will free up space on the wage bill for Ronaldo to join.
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