The singer who returned from his tour to the United States to support the governorship bid of his uncle, Senator Ademola Adeleke in the upcoming elections in Osun State, may have escaped an attack on his life.

This Davido claimed on his social media pages on Saturday night, September 15.

Both on his Twitter and Instagram pages, Davido shared an image with the caption, ''When you try to shoot at us next time, make sure u get aim, smh.''

http://www.metronaija.ng/davido-reportedly-shot-at-during-rally-in-osun/

cc: lalasticlala mynd44

Mr Adebayo Seun, a 200 level Fine Arts student of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, on Saturday sold a portrait of Gov. Nasir El-Rufa’i of Kaduna State, which he painted in two minutes for N2 million.

The portrait, painted during Kaduna Emerging Young Leaders Summit held in Kaduna, was bought through an auction within five minutes by Rep. Mohammed Mamadi (APC-Igabi).
READ ALSO PHOTOS: Gov. Akeredolu At Ondo State 2017 Christmas Carols

Seun told our reporter that he has never made this much from a painting.

“The highest I ever made was N500, 000. I really thanked the organizers of the event for this life changing opportunity.

`I am so happy and feel so encouraged,’’ he said.

Another artist, Abubakar Umar did a pencil drawing of the Governor.

The summit was organised by the state government to break the barriers to youth leadership in the state.
READ ALSO IGP Ibrahim Idris orders befitting burial for four police officers killed by suspected kidnappers in Kaduna

Muhammad Abdullahi, Commissioner, Planning and Budget Commission, said at the opening of the summit in Kaduna that the gathering provided an avenue for the youth to discuss challenges and chart a course for a better tomorrow.

“The summit was organised to bring youth, young professionals and emerging leaders together to discuss societal issues with a view to bring positive change in their communities.
READ ALSO Beautiful Photos Of BBNaija Housemate, Nina

`It is geared towards giving youth a platform to hear, learn, engage and collaborate with young professionals on academic, decision making, and advocacy for societal change and development,’’ he said.

http://www.metronaija.ng/artist-paints-el-rufai-in-two-minutes-sells-it-for-n2m/

cc: lalasticlala mynd44

The 16th Oluwo of Iwo Land, Oba Adewale Akanbi joined the Vote not fight campaign which is organized by 2baba

http://www.metronaija.ng/photos-oluwo-of-iwo-joins-vote-not-fight-campaign/

cc: lalasticlala mynd44

Mr Bello Maigari, Acting Executive Secretary, National Lottery Trust Fund (NLTF) has said that the Federal Government loses more than one trillion Naira annually due to activities of illegal lottery operators.

Maigari, who made this known to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Thursday in Abuja, stated that the lottery industry was worth over two trillion Naira.

He said that there were many lottery operators in the country without licence, adding that this has resulted to leakages in terms of what they were supposed to remit to the trust fund.

“Nigerian government is losing more than one trillion Naira every year because of illegal operators. There are a lot of illegal operators in the industry and these are part of the reasons why there are leakages.

“Some are conducting this business without being regulated and there are chances that such proceeds will be channelled towards crime, fraud, and of course, money laundering.

“We also have so many operators that are not performing for reasons best known to them; they have decided not to be moribund.

“And we learnt that some of them lease such licences to third parties to operate and through that there is huge leakage and government is losing revenue, particularly in the last 10 years,’’ he said.

Maigari stated that NLTF was collaborating with the National Lottery Regulatory Commission (NLRC) to develop a strong and robust enforcement strategy to curb leakages and enhance remittances.

He added that the strategy would be an automated form of collecting proceeds from operators.

He explained that the national lottery Act 2005 stated that lottery operators were required to pay NLTF 20 per cent of their proceeds in the first five years of their operation.

“The national lottery Act 2005 section 24, sub section 3 requires an operator to pay to the trust fund at the end of every lottery a percentage of 20 per cent for the first five years of operation.

“Then subsequently 25 per cent, then after 10 years 27.5 per cent, this is the way it is structured.

“We are to use these proceeds to promote good causes for Nigerians in health, sports, water and sanitation and other social services that will impact the social well being of Nigerians.

“But our only challenge is that funds are not coming in as expected,’’ he said

http://www.metronaija.ng/how-nigeria-loses-trillions-annually-to-illegal-lottery/

cc: lalasticlala mynd44

overnor Abiola Ajimobi of Oyo State has expressed confidence that the candidate of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola, would win the September 22 governorship election in Osun State judging by the exemplary performance of the incumbent administration.

The governor said this during the visit of the Assistant Inspector General of Police in charge of Zone 11, Danjuma Ibrahim, to his office, in Ibadan, on Wednesday.

Describing the visitor as an intelligent officer, the governor stressed that the leadership of the police in the zone was well grounded and competent enough to be able to ensure that the election was peaceful.

He assured the police authority of the readiness of the state government to assist the zone towards ensuring that the governorship election in Osun State was hugely successful.
READ ALSO Governor Sani-Bello Pays Tribute To Babangida at 77

The governor said, “AIG Danjuma Ibraheem is one of the most intelligent officers I have ever met and I can easily predict that he will get to the peak of his career soon. Your visit is heartwarming.

“We are quite sure that the coming Osun election is going to be free and fair and we shall provide necessary support towards this. It is very apparent, though, that APC will win easily because ours is the only party that is on ground and accepted by the people. We are confident that the APC will win the September 22 election because of the exemplary performance of the incumbent administration in Osun State. One should have no doubt that the APC will retain Osun State.”
READ ALSO Boko Haram: Military Disagrees With Shettima Over Rating, Performance

Commending the governor for restoring peace and security to the state through the combined efforts of security agencies, the police boss said that the resultant effect could be seen in the socio-economic growth of the state.

Ibrahim appealed to the governor to extend the assistance that he had been giving to the police state command in relation to refurbishing of operational vehicles and provision of Armoured Personnel Carriers and other logistic supports to the zonal command.

He said, “You already know that policing is not easy, especially when you consider the logistics that must be put in place to achieve success. The zonal command needs operational vehicles to assist our operation.
READ ALSO PHOTO: Slay King Arrested For Raping A Girl In Edo

“On the coming Osun State governorship elections, we can assure you that we have more than enough personnel ready for the assignment. We will do everything humanly possible to ward off intruders that might want to sneak in and wreck havoc on the election day. We know Osun State to be peaceful, but we do not want to leave anything to chance.

“So we are soliciting your support to also help in spreading the gospel of peace to the people in Oyo State and to caution anti-democratic elements against coming to Osun State to foment trouble during the election.”

http://www.metronaija.ng/apc-will-win-osun-governorship-ajimobi/

cc: lalasticlala mynd44

Gov. Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta on Wednesday said nobody could intimidate him or any member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state.

The governor spoke at a PDP rally in Delta Central Senatorial District, held at the Ughelli Stadium.

The rally was organised by the party to receive those who defected from other parties including the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Labour Party (LP).

Okowa lauded the defectors, charging them not to be intimidated by anyone, but to remain firm.

The governor said that no opposition could defeat the PDP in the state in the coming elections.

According to him, past elections, particularly in Ughelli, were tough, but the PDP always won in the area.

He said that with the calibre of the new members, elections in the area would become easier.

Okowa said that the party was ready for campaign for free and fair primaries in the state, urging members, as a family, to show understanding, to ensure peace and unity.

He charged all the party faithful to be strong and not allow anybody to intimidate them, assuring them that the next election would be won by the PDP.

“I want to thank all our leaders and our brothers who came to join us today; we don’t talk too much, we know the state very well. The opposition cannot stand us in the next elections, because they do not have the experience.

“We know that some of our brothers in other party talk too much, but nobody can intimidate us because we are working, and we know our people, and God is with us.

“And God is with us and you with me, we shall win the next elections because we are working,” Okowa said.

The State PDP Chairman, Chief Kingsley Esiso, in his address while receiving the new members, said that the party is committed to the zoning of the governorship position in the state.

He said that Okowa deserved to return for his second term of four years, as the governor had a track record of service delivery in the state.

“Chief James Ibori, from Delta Central ruled for eight years; Dr Emmanuel Uduaghan from Delta South senatorial district also did eight years; it’s now the turn of Sen. Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta North to go back for another four years to complete his eight years.

“So, we stand by the rotational governorship agreement in Delta and it is the turn of Delta North to produce the governor, and Okowa remains the choice of Delta North because he is working,” he said.

Prominent among the defectors were Chief Reuben Oteri, Chief Samuel Umunadi, Chief Ebel Orrume and Mr Edward Efemena, who led others from their parties to the event.

They leaders assured the PDP leadership of their commitment, while resolving to work and deliver votes to the party.

http://www.metronaija.ng/2019-election-nobody-can-intimidate-us-okowa/

cc: lalasticlala mynd44

More at http://www.metronaija.ng/photos-governor-abubakar-submits-gubernatorial-forms/

Governor M. A. Abubakar today promised to build on the legacy his administration and party, the APC have put in place for the masses.

http://www.metronaija.ng/photos-governor-abubakar-submits-gubernatorial-forms/

cc: lalasticlala mynd44

There are indications that students of public schools in Edo State who just resumed after the long vacation, would begin another indefinite vacation, following the notification of an indefinite strike served on the state government, over its failure to meet up with the demands of the State Chapter of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT).

The notification which follows the expiration of a 21-day ultimatum the Union earlier handed over to the State Government the State, shows that the indefinite strike will commence on Friday.

The Edo NUT, in a communique dated 6 September and signed by Pius Oaikhena Okhueleigbe and Moni Mike Modesty Itua, Chairman and Acting Secretary respectively, expressed dissatisfaction with the State Government’s failure to meet up with its demands.

“The State Wing Executive (SWEC), of the Nigeria Union of Teachers, noted with dissatisfaction, the non-resolution by Edo State Government of any of the issues that gave rise to the 21-day ultimatum.

“The Union magnanimously gave another seven-day extension period ending on the 13th of September, 2018 to Edo State Government, to meet the Union’s demands, failure which, Edo State public school teachers will commence an indefinite strike action with effect from Friday 14th, September, 2018,” the statement stated.

The demands of the teachers include the financial implementation of the 2013 to 2015 primary school teachers promotions as approved by the State Government, with the arrears of last January to July inclusive, as well as teachers’ deliberately omitted or denied the promotions by SUBEB.

Other demands are the immediate implementation of the N25,000 minimum wage approved by the State Government in May, 2016, for all its workers, (including all primary school teachers), with all the arrears; the immediate provision of subvention funds to both primary and secondary schools across the State.

The public school teachers had complained that they had been using their merger salaries to provide instructional materials like chalk, markers, diaries, registers, etc, for teaching in their various schools since 2012.

“Edo State Public Primary and Secondary School heads and their teachers are tired of using their meager salaries to provide instructional materials such chalk, markers, diaries, registers and many others, for teaching and learning in schools, due to the failure of Government to provide subventions to schools since the years 2012, and the recent near-zero supply of such items to schools.

“The Union decried lack of manpower personnel in the public schools, and urged the Government to commence the process of recruiting of about 9,000 and 3000 new staff to fill the vacant positions in both primary and secondary schools before the commencement of the next academic session slated for September,” they added.

The statement however appealed to all well-meaning citizens, to prevail on the State Government to urgently meet the demands of the Union with a view to averting what it described as imminent darkness that is about to envelop the education sector in the State.

Reacting to the threat of strike by the Union, the state Chairman of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Ms Joan Osa Oviawe, said the State Government was in discussion with the teachers to avert the strike.

It was however garthered that due to the looming strike by the NUT, the State Government has postponed the resumption of public primary schools in the State from 10 September to 17 September, while their counterparts in the post- primary schools have resumed.

http://www.metronaija.ng/edo-school-teachers-begin-indefinite-strike/

cc: lalasticlala mynd44

Kano state Governor Ganduje today held an interactive meeting with Ambassadors from the European Union under the leadership of the Head of the European Union (EU) Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Ambassador Ketil Karlsen at the EU's office in Abuja.

http://www.metronaija.ng/photos-european-union-ambassadors-visit-ganduje/

cc: lalasticlala mynd44

Nigerian Afro pop star, Ayodeji Balogun a.k.a Wizkid is on top of the world as his new creation jersey, designed by athletic apparel giant `Nike’ sold out 10 minutes after launch.

The `Soco’ crooner had announced and shared on his instagram handle @Wizkidayo that his Star Boy wears, a collaboration with Nike was coming out.

@Wizkidayo said: “Nike X Star Boy out worldwide! It was all a dream’.

After a much-anticipated wait, the `Star Boy’ jersey, which was released on Monday at selected Nike stores sold out in 10 minutes.

It only took minutes for the pop star to return to his instagram handle and write: “That was fast! Sold out in 10 minutes! Love you all like crazy! God is working harder than the devil!’’.

According to Nike, the collaboration shirt is a celebration of Wizkid’s Nigerian roots, and also a representation of the things that caught the fancy of Star Boy; football and fashion.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the logo of Star Boy Entertainment, his record label, is printed on the front side of his jersey.

Also in Surulere, Lagos where Wizkid was born and brought up is inscribed on the lower back of the jersey.

http://www.metronaija.ng/wizkids-jersey-designed-by-nike-sold-out-in-10-mins/

cc: lalasticlala mynd44

Minna Market Traders Association presents Nomination form to Governor Abubakar Sani Bello of Niger state.

http://www.metronaija.ng/photos-traders-buy-nomination-form-for-governor-sani-bello/

Chief Ralph Uwazuruike, Leader of the Movement for the Actualization of the Sovereign State of Biafra (MASSOB), has endorsed Mrs Bianca Ojukwu’s bid to contest the Anambra South Senatorial election in 2019.

Uwazuruike endorsed Bianca’s aspiration when Bianca, wife of late Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu and Dr Godwin Maduka, billionaire US-based Nigerian surgeon, visited Ojukwu Memorial Library Owerri on Sunday.

He said that he supports Bianca because her late husband meant everything to the identity of the Igbo people and was his bosom friend and mentor, who struggled for the emancipation of Ndigbo.

Uwazuruike, who also doubles as the leader of Biafra Independence Movement, said that though he was not from Anambra Senatorial District, but that he would deplore tools available to him to ensure Bianca emerged victorious.

“Bianca already has the backing of more than 15 Igbo billionaires for her 2019 senatorial project, and I make bold to say that she has my full support and we call on Anambra people to look back on our history and support her,’’ Uwazuruike appealed.

Mrs Ojukwu had recently declared to vie for the senatorial seat on the platform of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), a party which her late husband founded in 2003.

Mrs Ojukwu told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that she commended Uwazuruike’s zeal and interest in engraving the name of her husband and Ndigbo in the sands of time.

“When Uwazuruike started this Ojukwu Memorial Library project after the death of my husband, it was like a bourgeois dream, but the project today is almost completed,’’ she said.

Although Bianca said that her visit to the project site had no significance to her political ambition, she however, described her visit as “home coming”.

NAN reports that the Ojukwu Memorial Library complex has 2,000 capacity auditorium and E-library which on completion would serve as meeting place for discussion on Igbo historical heritage and issues affecting them.

Also, Maduka, who described the auditorium as “magnificent”, expressed delight on the thoughtfulness of Uwazuruike on the library and conference centre.

“I am indeed happy to see this kind of magnificent structure that could be likened to aesthetic buildings in the Netherlands, I will certainly identify with the initiator of this project in seeing to its completion.

“I must add that doing this is to demonstrate that I am a core Igbo man and I feel any privileged son or daughter of Igbo nation should show interest in this project that represents our history and unity,’’ he said.

Maduka, the Chief Executive Officer and Medical Director of Las Vegas Pain Institute and Medical Centre, Nevada, U.S. criticised what he called the continued marginalisation of a section of the country in favour of others.

He said that the beauty of Nigeria was the unity of all segments, and urged the leaders to kick against tribalism and nepotism to take the country to the next level.

NAN also reports that Maduka, who recently commenced construction of police academy at his Umuchukwu country home had completed a 16-storey skyscraper Medical Research Centre at Umuchukwu community in Orumba South Local Government, Anambra State.

He equally built and handed over High Court and Magistrates’ Court complex as well as involved in litany of developmental projects in a bid to turn his obscure community to a centre of medical destination in Nigeria and entire African continent.

http://www.metronaija.ng/2019-masspb-leader-uwazuruike-endorses-bianca-for-senate/

The Nigerian Air Force says the Air Task Force (ATF) of Operation LAFIYA DOLE, has successfully destroyed some Boko Haram Terrorists (BHT) facilities and equipment at Alafa Yagayaga in Sambisa forest.

According to the Air force, ATF has also destroyed a suspected BHT ammunition depot in Kusuma on the fringes of Lake Chad, Borno.

Air Commodore Ibikunle Daramola, NAF Director of Public Relations and Information disclosed this in a statement on Saturday in Abuja.

He said that the air strikes was in continuation of OPERATION THUNDER STRIKE 2 which commenced on Sept.3.

“The air strikes against BHTs at Alafa Yagayaga were targeted at structures within the settlement identified via previous Intelligence Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) missions to be rendezvous (RV) points for the insurgents.

“Consequently, a combination of NAF fighter aircraft and helicopter gunships were detailed to carry out air interdiction on the locations while the NAF ISR aircraft conducted Battle Damage Assessment (BDA).

“The attack platforms acquired the targets and took turns to attack the location, destroying the structures and killing most of the BHTs in the process.

“The few surviving BHTs, seen fleeing the area, were strafed and neutralised by the helicopter gunships,” he said.

Daramola said that the attack at Kusuma was initiated, following credible intelligence indicating the presence of a BHT logistics/ammunition depot within the settlement.

“Accordingly, the ATF detailed a fighter aircraft to attack the insurgents’ position while the NAF ISR aircraft conducted BDA.”

He explained that at end of the attacks, the BDA revealed a direct hit on the ammunition depot which was engulfed in fire.

The NAF Director of Public Relations and Information added some other adjoining BHT structures were also destroyed and the occupying terrorists

http://www.metronaija.ng/naf-destroy-terrorists-facilities-in-sambisa-forest-2/

cc: lalasticlala mynd44

APC extends deadline for sale, submission of nomination forms

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has extended the deadline for the sale and submission of Presidential, Governorship, National Assembly and State House of Assembly forms to Tuesday, Sept. 11.

Mr Yekini Nabena, the APC National Publicity Secretary announced the extension in a statement on Friday in Abuja.

The previous deadline was Monday, Sept. 10.

“All aspirants for the listed positions are to submit their duly completed forms to the APC national secretariat,“ Nabena said.

He urged those for the state House of Assembly election to do so at the party state secretariat on or before the close of work of the new deadline.
READ ALSO Our culture of marital pressure and shaming people into remaining isn't a good one -Twitter user

The party national secretariat has become a beehive of activities since it commenced the sale of Expression of Interest and Nomination forms to aspirants on Sept.5.

This, is especially so, as aspirants from all states of the federation and their supporters troop to the secretariat to obtain the forms.

Traders have also taken advantage of the large turnout of party members and supporters at the secretariat, located at Blantyre Street in Wuse zone two, to do brisk business.

While some traders take the opportunity to display various souvenirs, others were seen selling the party Constitution to members.
READ ALSO Insecurity: Be Ahead Of The Attackers - Buhari Orders DSS, Police, Others

Commercial photographers also struggled to get the attention of party members who may want to take photographs for posterity.

A drive through the street has, however, become a herculean task due to heavy human and vehicular traffic, as security operatives attached to the party were seen ensuring orderliness.

However, the two hotels located on the street, Valencia and Barcelona, continued to record high patronage.

Mr Ade Omole, leader of the APC United Kingdom chapter, while speaking on the large crowd of party members, said it was a testimony that Nigerians still believed in the party, contrary to the opposition’s claim.
READ ALSO SARS Arrest Security Guards For Stealing N5Million From Borno Hospital. Photo

“It shows that Nigerians still believe in the party and that good will always prevails over bad and evil.

“The erroneous perception created by fake news has been shattered by the reality of Nigerians flooding APC national headquarters to pick forms to contest elective positions in 2019,” he said

https://www.metronaija.ng/apc-extends-deadline-for-sale-submission-of-nomination-forms/

cc: lalasticlala mynd44

The Nigerian Army on Thursday said it killed many ‘Boko-Haram’ insurgents and recovered 147 livestock in two separate operations in Jentilo and Gesada villages of Kukawa and Guzamala Local Government Areas in Borno.

Brig.- Gen. Texas Chukwu, Director Army Public Relations, disclosed this in a statement in Maiduguri.
Chukwu said that the troops of Sector 3 Operation ‘Lafiya Dole’, in conjunction with 82 Task Force Battalion, on clearance operations, killed the insurgents when they (insurgents) tried to extort money and rustle livestock belonging to the villagers.

Chukwu explained that some Items recovered from them include 147 livestock and two AK47 rifles.
He said that the troops returned the livestock to the owners after proper screening and confirmation by the District Head and Civilian Joint Task Force personnel.

http://www.metronaija.ng/army-kills-insurgents-recovers-stolen-livestock-in-borno-2/

cc: lalasticlala mynd44

The Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting on Wednesday approved a N6.01 trillion National Strategic Health Development Plan II.

The Minister of Health, Prof. Isaac Adewole, disclosed this when he briefed State House correspondents at the end of the Council’s meeting chaired by Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

According to him, the new plan which covers 2018 to 2022, involves the 36 states of the Federation and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

“The Council today considered a memo from the Federal Ministry of Health on the National Strategic Health Development Plan II, covering the period 2018 – 2022.

“We had the previous Plan I which covered the period 2010 – 2015. The Plan I had 52 targets but regrettably we were only able to achieve less than two from the 52 targets.

“So, we spent a long time trying to put in place the Second Plan, so it took us about two years to get this second plan done.

“It involves all states of the federation, it includes the Federal Capital Territory and our development partners participated in the presentation and the approval of the Plan,’’ he said.

The minister revealed that the Plan was approved at the National Council of Health’s meeting that took place in Kano on June 21.

He explained that the plan had five strategic pillars and 15 priority areas, saying the five pillars included enabling environment for attainment of health sector goals and increased utilisation of essential package of health services.

Others are strengthening the health system and protection from health emergencies as well as health financing.

“In total, this new plan has 15 thematic areas, 48 strategic objectives and 282 interventions that will help us to really improve the healthcare delivery that will offer our people.

“What is important is the stakeholder and strong health sector wide participation of states in the presentation. We went through a five-stage process.

“The states went to develop their plans. The federal developed ours. We came together, harmonised all the plans and we brought everybody together to validate and adopt the plan and then moved on to Kano for implementation.

“The entire projects meant for over five years will cost us over N6.071 trillion and we believe that if this funding is done, if the plans are implemented faithfully, we will achieve a 31 per cent reduction in maternal mortality.

“We will achieve 33 percent reduction in horizontal mortality and we will achieve fewer than five percent mortality reduction of 29 per cent.

Adewole announced that the plan would be presented to the National Economic Council (NEC) and Governors’ Forum to secure the buy-in of the governors so that the plan could be faithfully implemented.

He, therefore, expressed optimism that the plan would usher Nigeria into a new era.

On the reported outbreak of cholera in some parts of the Northern states, the minister said his ministry was collaborating with the affected states in addressing the epidemic.

He further stated that Nigeria in partnership with some African countries is working toward the eradication of cholera in the continent.

The Minister of State for Power, Works and Housing, Alhaji Mustapha Shehuri, also told newsmen that the council approved N5 billion for the construction of Abak-Eket road in Akwa-Ibom.

According to him, other approvals include N1.097 billion for augmentation of the N28 billion Abuja-Abaji-Lokoja road Section 1; N78 million for design, finance and operate of 750 kilowatts power generation facility.

He disclosed that N73 million was also approved for the augmentation of the construction of N1.2 billion bridge in Sumaila Local government in Kano State.

http://www.metronaija.ng/nigeria-govt-approves-n6trn-for-national-strategic-health-development/

cc: lalasticlala mynd44

The Senior Special Assistant on Domestic Affairs to former President Goodluck Jonathan, Waripamo-Owei Dudafa, on Tuesday told the court that funds in his accounts were part of the donations made by Prince Arthur Eze to Otueke Anglican Communion for the building of Saint Stephen Deaconry and youth development centre in Bayelsa State.

Dudafa was arraigned alongside a banker, Joseph Iwejuo, by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on June 11, 2016 on a 23-count charge bordering on money laundering and conspiracy to conceal proceeds of crime worth N1.6 billion.

Dudafa made the statement before a Federal High Court, Lagos, during his examination-in-chief.

He was led in evidence by his counsel, Mr Gboyega Oyewole (SAN).

During cross-examination by EFCC counsel, Rotimi Oyedepo, Dudafa confirmed that he received a cumulative sum of 10 million dollars from Prince Eze, in the presence of the former president between 2013 and 2015.

He insisted that the proceeds of the donations for the church projects were paid into his private companies’ accounts.

Dudafa claimed that between 2005 and 2011, he made between N5 million and N7 million as daily turnover from his fast food business, De Jakes Fast Food, before his appointment to the former president.

He, however, denied having any transaction with the Office of National Security Adviser or Central Bank of Nigeria.

He said he had no relationship whatsoever with any government official during his tenure as the former president’s aide.

“I only looked after the residence of the former president and ran errands for him,” Dudafa said.

The former president’s aide said his failure to fill the assets declaration form while in EFCC detention was due to the commission’s refusal to state the nature of his offences and the denial of his right to a lawyer.

He added that he did not fill the asset declaration form because he was not a public officer as he was not paid salary from the public accounts.

The defendant denied knowing anyone called Jide Ofor, who was alleged to have paid the sum of N41.85 million into his account.

When also asked of his relationship with some companies that made payments for his house at Chevron Estate, Lekki, Dudafa denied having any house in Lekki.

He said that the only house he had in Lagos was at Sangotedo, at Lekki-Ajah axis of the state.

The defendant told the court that the statements he made while in custody of the anti-graft agency were made under duress.

Dudafa said that he was made to understand that making the statements would be the only option to guaranty his freedom.

Justice Mohammed Idris, adjourned further hearing until Sept. 7 for continuation of cross-examination.


http://www.metronaija.ng/i-received-10m-for-church-project-in-otuoke-ex-president-jonathans-aide-2/

cc: lalasticlala mynd44

President Buhari particulates in a roundtable meeting at the forum on China-Africa Cooperation in Beijing, China.

http://www.metronaija.ng/photos-buhari-in-a-roundtable-meeting-in-china/

cc: lalasticlala mynd44

The Peoples Democratic Party, (PDP) on Monday in Abuja urged its campaign committee to do everything within the law to win the Sept. 22 governorship election in Osun.

National Chairman of the party, Mr Uche Secondus, gave the charge when he inaugurated the party’s National Campaign Committee for the election.

The committee has President of the Senate, Dr Bukola Saraki, as chairman.

Secondus said that members of the committee were carefully nominated because of the importance of Osun to the PDP.

He said that PDP believed that its candidate was the best for the state, and assured that it would not allow itself to be rigged out in the election.

“We will not allow vote-buying in Osun because that is rigging and rigging is corruption.

“I believe that the international community is watching and all eyes are on this nation,’’ he said.

Secondus advised security agencies not to allow themselves to be used, reminding them that they had sworn to uphold the Constitution, not an individual or politician.

He urged them to be loyal to Nigerians, the Constitution and the electoral process and law.

He also called on all stakeholders to rise and condemn rigging, vote-buying and intimidation in elections by security agencies.

Secondus said that the committee had the responsibility to augment all activities of campaign and reach out to all the critical stakeholders.

“It should mobilise all our people in all the local government areas of Osun, and to do everything necessary within the law for us to win the state.’’

In his response, Saraki promised that the committee would ensure that the PDP wins the Osun poll.

He said that the election was important because PDP had lost two governorship elections in the South-West – Ekiti and Ondo.

“We must win Osun to prove that Osun is the home ground of the PDP. This is a state where salaries are not being paid,’’ he said.

Saraki said that winning the Osun poll was not just about the state but to also serve as a momentum for the 2019 general elections.

He expressed hope that President Muhammadu Buhari would live up to his promise to world leaders that the 2019 elections would be free and fair.

According to him, the issue of free and fair elections is important as Nigeria’s reputation was at stake, with the crude use of force by security agencies during elections.

http://www.metronaija.ng/pdp-why-we-must-win-osun-governorship-election/

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Oyo State Command, on Monday commenced the raiding of hotels and clubs in Ibadan.

The agency said that the action was to check drug trafficking and the use and sales of abusive substances.

The state Commandant, Mrs Omolade Faboyede, said this through the agency’s Public Relations Officer {PRO} Mrs Mutiat Okuwobi, in Ibadan.

The agency’s chief in a statement said that the first in the ongoing raids took place at 8.30 p.m. on Sunday at a beer parlour in Sango area of Ibadan.

“The raid resulted in the interception of some abusive substances including 30 kegs of “Skrushy’’ drink and 20 bottles of the same drink.

“Others were ladies’ bag containing cannabis sativa, bottles of codeine syrup, and 10×1ml Pemadex Dexamethasane injection, 11 shisha pipes and its pots.

“It is worthy to note that “Skrushy” is a cocktail drink that contains mixture of different hard drugs including cannabis sativa, codeine, tramadol and watermelon to give it flavour,” she said.

According to her, the combination or mixture depends on how sophisticated the area is.

Faboyede said that NDLEA officials would still visit more joints and hotels where the illicit transaction was taking place.

She noted that the agency’s recent investigations revealed that ladies and young adults were more prominent in the sales and usage of “skrushy” drink.

Faboyede cautioned drinking joints popularly known as pubs and hotels against the sales of these illicit and abusive substances.

She said that such drugs including “skrushy” could result in temporary psychosis.

The officer urged the media organisations in the state to supply the agency with useful information on drug peddlers.

She said that through that the agency and the public would be able to rid the society of drug addiction and its attendant crimes

http://www.metronaija.ng/ndlea-raids-clubs-hotels-for-drugs-in-oyo-2/

cc: lalasticlala mynd44

Former Big Brother Naija finalist 2017, Tokunbo Idowu who is also known as Tboss stuns at the red carpet of the biggest television and film award ceremony in Africa, the Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards 2018 (AMVCA 2018).

http://www.metronaija.ng/photos-tboss-at-2018-amvca/

cc: lalasticlala mynd44

Nollywood power couple, Olu Jacobs and Joke Silva pictured at the red carpet of the biggest television and film award ceremony in Africa, the Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards 2018 (AMVCA 2018).

http://www.metronaija.ng/photo-olu-jacobs-and-joke-silva-at-2018-amvca/

Former Big Brother Naija housemates, Khloe, Lolu and Leo pictured at the biggest television and film award ceremony in Africa, the Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards 2018 (AMVCA 2018).

http://www.metronaija.ng/photos-ex-bbnaija-housemate-khloe-lolu-and-leo-at-2018-amvca/

cc: lalasticlala mynd44

former Big Brother Naija housemates, Bassey and Kemen pictured at the red carpet of the biggest television and film award ceremony in Africa, the Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards 2018 (AMVCA 2018).

http://www.metronaija.ng/photos-ex-bbnaija-housemates-bassey-and-kemen-at-amvca-2018/

cc: lalasticlala mynd44

more and more at http://www.metronaija.ng/photos-female-celebrities-at-2018-amvca/

See more at http://www.metronaija.ng/photos-female-celebrities-at-2018-amvca/

More at http://www.metronaija.ng/photos-female-celebrities-at-2018-amvca/

Your favourite female celebrities are all out this evening to grace the biggest television and film award ceremony in Africa, the Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards 2018 (AMVCA 2018). www.metronaija.ng brings to you all the colourful photos on the red carpet.

http://www.metronaija.ng/photos-female-celebrities-at-2018-amvca/

As the deadline for the Continues Voters Registration exercise draw near, the Oyo State Government has declared Friday public holiday to enable civil servants and other residents of the state obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVC).

Mr Olalekan Alli, Secretary to the State Government, announced this in statement issued on Thursday in Ibadan.

Alli said the the work-free-day is to also enable workers that are yet to register to do so.

“The governor has made it mandatory for all public and civil servants in the state to duly register and obtain their PVCs before the closing date for the CVR.

“Consequently, he has directed that Friday, August 31, be observed as work-free day in all government offices across the state,” he said.

INEC had announced Aug. 31 as closing date for the exercise until after the 2019 general elections.

http://www.metronaija.ng/pvc-oyo-govt-declares-friday-work-free-day-2/

Source: http://www.metronaija.ng/photos-buhari-osinbajo-apc-governors-at-nec-meeting-in-abuja/