₦airaland Forum

Wetin concern your award and PETER OBI. Most you mentioned HIS NAME?

I saw a post yesterday where someone said:
“Be careful with a Nigerian contractor — they quote a project for ₦30 million and end up spending ₦15 million.”

Now, I don’t know the details of that particular case, so I won’t speak on that specific project. But let me speak as a professional in this construction industry with my name, experience, and integrity on the line.

There is no professional contractor who will mark up profit and overhead by 50%.

With the rising cost of materials and the current economic realities in Nigeria, no serious contractor will quote a ₦30 million project for ₦15 million. It’s not realistic.

But here’s the issue:

Most clients don’t judge projects by value or durability they judge by the lowest cost.

They compare the final amount spent with what a contractor quoted, without asking the hard questions:

• What were the changes in scope?
• What quality of materials was used?
• Were there structural upgrades?
• Is the durability the same?
• What was the mix ratio used?

Let me give you a real-life example:

I’m currently working on a project in an area where 9-inch blocks sell for ₦850. But when I checked, the quality was far below standard. I had to source higher-strength blocks at ₦1,050. Multiply the difference by 5,000 blocks ,you do the math.

Still in that area:
• Their soft sand is not usable for casting. It’s what Lagos people call Dargolu.

• I had to import stone dust and granite for casting to meet proper strength.

• Their gravel? Dirty and inconsistent. I couldn’t risk structural failure.

• I added columns throughout and chained the external walls for proper load transfer and integrity.

What about:
• PPR pipes for plumbing standard, but costly.
• High-quality tiles, lighting, and fittings :not the cheap versions that fail within 6 months.

All these don’t show immediately, but give it 1–2 years and the real cost in terms of maintenance and repairs will surface. Unfortunately, no one comes back to post about that.

So when people say:

“That contractor was too expensive. I got it cheaper elsewhere…”

Ask them:
• What were the original specs?

• What did they settle for?

• And most importantly , what did they actually get?

You can’t get a ₦30 million project for ₦15 million without cutting corners, using substandard materials, going against professional advice and settling for less.

Behind every failed building , there is someone who go against professional advice , seltle for sub standard material and love cuttings comer to get it cheaper .

Good work costs money. Quality is not cheap.

Profit and overhead margins for professionals range from 10–25%.
Right now, many contractors are going as low as 7% just to stay competitive.

So when someone says, “I found it cheaper,” ask them to provide:

• The Bill of Quantities (BOQ)
• The materials used
• The specifications followed
• And the actual results

We all know you can’t compare a ₦900,000 Turkish security door with a ₦200,000 Chinese version. The look may be similar, but the quality? Nowhere close.

Durability has value.

Good engineering has value.

And real construction professionals should not be painted with the same brush as quacks.

Once you hear someone saying, “I spent less without using a construction engineer,” ask them:
What substandard method did they apply?

An Italian shoe of ₦350k is not on the same level as a ₦150k Chinese shoe , we all know the difference.

Taking a broken bone to an orthopedic surgeon costs more than going to a roadside quack. One will treat you for now and the future. The other? May lead to amputation.

Be aware. Don’t let anyone mislead you.

North East — 109
South West — 106
North West — 37
North Central — 31
South South — 28
South East — 24

The South West alone recorded more reported suicide cases than the North West + North Central + South South combined (37 + 31 + 28 = 96).
#Statisense
(NIH, 2024)

The masses have already "LOVED" PETER OBI. so no going BACK!

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Shaibu Husseini, the executive director of the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB), says the federal government has banned smoking, money rituals, and the promotion of crimes in Nigerian movies.

According to NAN, Husseini announced the ban at a national stakeholders’ engagement on smoke-free Nollywood in Enugu on Wednesday.

The executive director of NFVCB decried the dangers of smoking to health and how such portrayals in movies could negatively influence the younger generation.

Husseini said the regulation to ban smoking, ritual killings, and glamourising other crimes has been approved by Hannatu Musawa, the minister of arts, culture and the creative economy.
“As you all know, the film industry occupies a central position in the entertainment and creative sector and it is imperative that we continue to place the highest premium on the progress of the film industry,” he said.

“The NFVCB supports smoke-free movies and supports smoke-free Nollywood, and we therefore seek your collaboration to develop creative content that discourages smoking and promotes positive health messages.

“In spite the obvious fact that our culture and heritage are part of our existence, we tend to pay less than optimal attention to the movies that are produced.


“When my predecessor approached the former Minister of Information, Alhaji Lai Muhammed on the need to make a subsidiary legislation to curtail the display of smoking in Nigerian movies, he saw the need to include money rituals.

“Others included in the regulation are ritual killings and glamourising other crimes in order to further sanitise the film industry

“Today, I am delighted to announce to you that the Minister of Arts, Culture and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, pursuant to section 65 of the NFVCB Act 2004 has approved the regulation.

“The minister has approved the prohibition of money ritual, ritual killing, tobacco, tobacco products, nicotine product promotion and glamorisation display in movies, musical videos and skits.”
Movie producers, directors and actors drawn from different parts of the country, as well as leaders of various guilds and associations in the Nigerian film industry were present at the event.
https://lifestyle.thecable.ng/fg-bans-money-ritual-smoking-crime-scenes-in-nollywood-films/

Justice Abimbola Awogboro of the Federal High Court, Lagos, in her sentence, said the judgment will serve as a deterrent to others who are fond of abusing and mutilating the naira.



Controversial cross-dresser Idris Olanrewaju Okuneye popularly known as Bobrisky has been sentenced to six months imprisonment without an option of fine for abusing the Nigerian currency – naira.

Justice Abimbola Awogboro of the Federal High Court, Lagos, in her sentence, said the judgment will serve as a deterrent to others who are fond of abusing and mutilating the naira.

Before the sentence, the judge asked Bobrisky about his sex, and he quickly replied that he is a man.

He was subsequently sentenced to serve his jail term at the Ikoyi Correctional Centre.

The judge in her ruling held that the jail term would commence on March 24, 2024, the day of his arrest.he court had on April 5, convicted him after he pleaded guilty to a 4 counts charge of abuse of the naira, made against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

The judge adjourned to last Thursday for sentencing, but the Federal Government declared the day a public holiday for the Eid-El-Fitri celebration.

The counts against him read: “that you, Okuneye Idris Olanrewaju, on the 24th day of March 2024, at Imax Circle Mall, Jakande, Lekki, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court whilst dancing during a social event tampered with the total sum of N400,000.00 (four hundred thousand naira) notes issued by the Central Bank of Nigeria by spraying same and you thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under section 21(1) of the Central Bank Act, 2007.

“That you, Okuneye Idris Olanrewaju, between July and August 2023 at Aja Junction, lkorodu, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court whilst dancing during a social event tampered with the sum N50, 000.00 (Fifty Thousand Naira) issued by the Central Bank of Nigeria by spraying same and you thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under section 21(1) of the Central Bank Act, 2007.

“That you, Okuneye Idris Olanrewaju, sometimes in December 2023 at White Steve Event Hall, Ikeja, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court whilst dancing during a social event tampered with the sum N20,000.00 (twenty thousand naira) issued by the Central Bank of Nigeria by spraying same and you thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under section 21(1) of the Central Bank Act, 2007.

“That you, Okuneye Idris Olanrewaju, sometimes in 2022 at Event Hall, Oniru, Victory Island, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court whilst dancing during a social event tampered with the sum N20,000.00 (twenty thousand naira) issued by the Central Bank of Nigeria by spraying same and you thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under section 21(1) of the Central Bank Act, 2007.”

Muslim women can delay menstrual cycle to fast during Ramadan: Cleric
The cleric added that though other cultures came with their form of fasting, Ramadan fasting was unique as Allah prescribed it.

Salaudeen Abdulkadir, the chief missioner of the Igbomina-Ekiti Muslim Forum, says Muslim women who do not want to miss their fasting can medically delay the menstrual cycle.

Mr Abdulkadir made the statement in Ilorin while delivering the annual Ramadan lecture organised by the Igbomina-Ekiti Muslim Forum national headquarters.

The chief missioner emphasised that as long as the process did not endanger the women’s lives, they could alter their cycle to fast the complete month of Ramadan.

He explained that Islam was applicable in every era or situation, adding that experts on Islamic Jurisprudence had researched and reached the conclusion that a woman could delay her cycle if she so desired.

The cleric stated that Allah had mandated Ramadan fasting on believing Muslims, adding that this was for health and spiritual rejuvenation.

Mr Abdulkadir, also the chief imam of Olanrewaju Mosque, reminded that Allah did not overburden man beyond his capacity.

The cleric warned Muslims against following cultures against the practices of Islam, adding that screaming, shouting or calling Allah’s name in vain is prohibited.

“You do not shout the name of Allah or call his name in vain. Allah has taught us ways of calling on him and getting nearer to him.

“When you obey Allah, He will hold you in high regards. You must folow his injunctions to become nearer to Allah,” he advised.

Similarly, Mr Abdulkadir emphasised the importance of reading the Holy Quran, adding that “Ramadan is the month of the Quran.”

He pointed out that Ramadan was not prescribed for the very sick, and that if life was threatened due to fasting, then they were excused from the obligation.

The cleric added that though other cultures came with their own form of fasting, Ramadan fasting was unique as it was prescribed by Allah, who instructed Muslims on its process.

Also, Nasuredeen Ibrahim, the national president of the association, urged Muslims on the remembrance of Allah and being grateful to him at all times and circumstances.

Commenting on the economic situation in the country, he advised that this was the best time to get closer to Allah for all challenges.

“We should do the little we can. Allah has not overburdened us and He will accept. But you cannot reduce the mandated Ibadah,” he said.

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Meanwhile, Sowore has described the prayer as a waste of time, insisting that what they were planning to do would not change anything.

Some Nigerian youths have declared a national prayer against the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof Mahmoud Yakubu for allegedly rigging the 2023 presidential election.



Titled: "Nigerian Youths National Prayer Day, 25 February 2024, Curse Be Unto Mahmoud Yakubu," the youths claimed that Yakubu's cash-and-carry 2023 presidential election was reason for the current hardship Nigerians were going through because of the anti-people's policies of President Bola Tinubu's administration.



In a poster shared on X (formerly Twitter) by #RevolutionNow activist and presidential candidate of African Action Congress (AAC), in the 2023 general elections, Omoyele Sowore, the youths accused the INEC chairman of selling the presidential election to the highest bidder.



The poster reads: "INEC chairman who sold elections to the highest bidder. He rigged the elections that brought Bola Ahmed Tinubu to power Muslims, Christians, Traditionalist, Aithist we gather swear for INEC Chairman."



Meanwhile, Sowore has described the prayer as a waste of time, insisting that what they were planning to do would not change anything.



He advised that if the youths who wanted to embarked on escapades were desirous of change of the situation in the country, they should engage in a mass action that would lead to a revolution that would liberate them.



He wrote: "Curses on @inecnigeria Chairman won’t and don’t work, don’t waste your time as “youths” embarking on these embarrassing escapades of actions that have zero impact.



"If you want to change your situation, GIDDY UP, #TaKEITBACK! Engage in mass action! #RevolutionNow," he said.
https://saharareporters.com/2024/02/12/hardship-nigerian-youths-declare-national-prayer-curse-be-unto-mahmoud-yakubu-allegedly

February 9, 2024

The Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Limited (SPDC), in which TotalEnergies holds a 10% stake, has struggled with hundreds of onshore oil spills as a result of theft, sabotage and operational issues that led to costly repairs and high-profile lawsuits over the years.

French energy giant TotalEnergies is seeking to sell its minority share in a major Nigerian onshore oil joint venture, following Shell's divestment last month.



TotalEnergies CEO, Patrick Pouyanne at the TotalEnergies' annual results presentation on Wednesday said producing oil in the Niger Delta is not in line with the energy giant health, security and environmental policies, Reuters reports.



The Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Limited (SPDC), in which TotalEnergies holds a 10% stake, has struggled with hundreds of onshore oil spills as a result of theft, sabotage and operational issues that led to costly repairs and high-profile lawsuits over the years.

"We want to divest our share of SPDC, and we are looking to reshape the portfolio," Pouyanne said.

"Fundamentally it's because producing this oil in the Niger Delta is not in line with our [Health, Security and Environmental] policies, it's a real difficulty."



SPDC operates a network of pipelines, 263 oil wells, 56 gas wells, six gas plants, two oil export terminals and a power plant, according to its website.

TotalEnergies is the latest international oil company seeking to withdraw from Nigeria's onshore sector after decades of operations. However, the French group, which produced a total of 219,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day in 2023 in Nigeria, remains a major operator of offshore fields in the West African country.

Earlier this week it announced the start-up of the Akpo West oilfield located 135 kilometres off the coast.

Shell last month announced it had agreed to sell its 30% stake in SPDC to a consortium of five mostly local companies for up to $2.4 billion.

Other partners in the joint venture are the state's Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), which holds 55% and Italy's Eni with 5%.

Exxon Mobil, Eni and Norway's Equinor have all sold assets in Nigeria in recent years to focus on newer, more profitable operations elsewhere.

Pouyanne said TotalEnergies would keep its Nigerian gas resources, which he described as crucial for the company's planned expansion of liquefied natural gas development in coming years.

Any sale would require Nigerian government approval.
https://saharareporters.com/2024/02/09/totalenergies-sell-its-nigerian-onshore-oil-venture-after-shells-exit

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In a move towards supporting healthcare infrastructure in Nigeria, former Anambra State Governor, Mr. Peter Obi, visited the Immaculate Heart Specialist Hospital in Nkpor, Anambra State yesterday, with substantial financial support.

With an eye on the Human Development Index (HDI), Mr. Obi, known for his commitment to Nigeria’s progress, presented a cheque of $50,000 and N15 million to the hospital.

The $50,000 donation originated from the benevolence of Prof Philip Ozuah, a close associate of Mr. Obi, renowned for his dedication to societal betterment. Mr. Obi, equally passionate about fostering positive change, contributed N15 million from his personal funds to further the cause of healthcare at the critical facility.

“Encouraging more investment in our health sector, especially at the primary healthcare level, is critical to the development of any nation. A healthy nation, they say, is a wealthy nation. Governments at all levels, therefore, must prioritize investment in the health sector,” emphasized Mr. Obi during his visit.

Commending the Proprietor and Management of Immaculate Heart Specialist Hospital for their unwavering commitment to healthcare delivery, Mr. Obi urged fellow Nigerians and donor agencies to join hands in supporting health and education sectors, integral to the nation’s developmental journey to a New Nigeria.

“I am glad with how they have continued to grow and improve in their healthcare delivery to the people,” Mr. Obi expressed, underlining the pivotal roles health and education play in poverty alleviation.
https://parallelfactsnews.com/obi-commits-50000-to-healthcare-in-nkpor/

They have started again in Ogun land

The Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB) is inviting applications from suitably qualified candidates for full time appointment to fill existing vacancies

The Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB) is inviting applications from suitably qualified candidates for full time appointment to fill existing vacancies

The Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB) is inviting applications from suitably qualified candidates for full time appointment to fill existing vacancies

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Category A: INSPECTORATE CADRE

*Inspector of Fire (IF) CONPASS 07 (Nursing)

Applicants must be Registered Nurses (RN), Registered Midwives (RM), Registered Nurses/Midwives (RNIM) obtained from recognized institutions.

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*Assistant Inspector of Fire (AIF), CONPASS 06

Applicants must be holders of NCE or National Diploma (ND) in any related field, obtained from any recognized Polytechnic/Institution.



Category B: ASSISTANT CADRE

*Fire Assistant II (FA II) CONPASS 04

Applicants must be holders of GCE Ordinary level, SSCE/NECO or other equivalents with a maximum of five (5) credits in not more than two sittings, which should include English and Mathematics.

*Fire Assistant III (FAIII), Appliance Driver (Specialist), CONPASS 03

Applicants must be holders of GCE Ordinary level, SSCE/NECO or their equivalents with a minimum of five (5) credits in not more than two sittings which should include at least English and Mathematics. Applicants with Class E Drivers’ License is an added advantage



Eligibility

*Applicants must be Nigerians by birth;

*Applicants must possess the requisite qualifications. Any certificate or qualification not presented and accepted at the recruitment center shall not be accepted after the recruitment.

*Applicants must be fit and present certificates of medical fitness from Government recognized hospitals;

*Applicants must be of good character and must not have been convicted of any criminal offences;

*Applicants must not be member of secret society, cult or drug addict, etc

*Applicants must not have been involved in any financial embarrassment

*Applicants must be between ages of 18 and 35 years;

*Applicants’ height must not be less than 1.65m for male and 1.60m for female;

*Applicants’ chest measurement must not be less than 0.87 for men;

*Computer literacy will be of added advantage.

*Applications must be submitted online within Six (6) weeks from the date of publication.

How to apply

Applications should be done online. Candidates are expected to log on to the portal here as from Wednesday, 27th December, 2023, to fill and submit the application form online.

Candidates are advised to print out the Referee Forms which must be duly completed for submission during the screening exercise.

Applications must be submitted online within Six (6) weeks from the date of publication.

https://dailytrust.com/apply-federal-fire-service-is-recruiting/?utm_term=Autofeed&utm_medium=Social&utm_source=Twitter#Echobox=1704632452

How Armed ‘Fulani Herdsman’ Attacked Me, Stepdaughter And Her 5-Year-Old Baby At Home On Christmas Day, Nigerian-American Prof., Okediji Recounts
G
January 7, 2024
The latest incident comes less than two weeks after Okediji narrated how some Nigerian immigration officers at the Seme border allegedly robbed him of $500 and took his hand luggage with all the money that he brought from the US while returning to Nigeria.

A Nigerian-American professor at the University of Texas, Austine, Moyo Okediji, has recounted how he was robbed on Christmas Day in Ile-Ife, southwest Nigeria.

The latest incident comes less than two weeks after Okediji narrated how some Nigerian immigration officers at the Seme border allegedly robbed him of $500 and took his hand luggage with all the money that he brought from the US while returning to Nigeria.



Okediji further alleged that some police officers attached to the FESTAC Mile 2 Station, Lagos State nearly killed him after his encounter with the immigration officers, but for the timely intervention of some young men.



Regarding the Christmas Day attack, Okediji said the robber who identified himself as a ‘Fulani herdsman’ was in his home from midnight to 1:00 am.



Narrating the incident, the art historian, painter and artist said he was at home with his stepdaughter and her five-year-old baby when the bandit attacked.

He said, “I was inside my chalet in Ile Ife. The building is a rotunda with a spacious bedroom doubling as a sitting room, with a kitchen and bathroom.



“In the bedroom was a queen bed, on which my stepdaughter, Obanimi, and her five-month-old baby slept.



“I threw a native mat on the floor. I spread a towel on the mat to cushion my body, and placed a pillow there to comfort my head. Lights out was at about 9:00 pm, I slept immediately like a baby.

“In what felt to me like just a couple of seconds after I laid on the mat, someone fell on top of me. It was Obanimi, yelling, ‘Prof, prof, get up, there’s someone in the kitchen.’

“I wasn’t sure if I was dreaming or awake. It felt like a bad Nollywood flick. As Obanimi pointed at the kitchen door, a beam of light coming from that direction filled the room.

“The silhouette of the figure behind the beam of light moved swiftly into the room. It was a male figure.



“I dragged in a long breath. Summoning courage, I challenged the silhouette, yelling, ‘Who are you?’

“’I am Fulani herdsman,’ he responded. ‘Boko Haram. Where is the money?’

“’Which money?’ I asked him.

“’You think I am here to waste my time?’ He answered. ‘You are playing with your life.’



“He dashed towards me. He made a menacing move, pointing the tip of the dagger at me, while at the same time wielding the machete as if he was poised to cut off my head in one sweep.

“’I have killed more than one thousand people,’ he declared. ‘Your life means nothing to me. It’s like killing a fly. Beware. I have given you the last warning. One false move and your head is rolling on the floor.’

“He looked and sounded diabolical. But for some reason I wasn’t able to figure out, I did not panic.



“’I’m an old man,’ I explained to him. ‘If you kill me, you may actually be saving me from the aches and pains of old age. I’m more concerned about your life than mine. You are young and have a long life ahead of you.’

“’Shurrup,’ he snapped, moving towards me threateningly. ‘On the floor, now!’

Okediji said the order wasn’t necessary as he “was already lying on the mat on the floor.”

“He reviewed the order: ‘Lie face down!’ he yelled. That was difficult to obey. It didn’t seem logical to me to turn away from the menacing figure wielding weapons right against my face.

“’There is very tight security in this neighborhood,’ I informed him.

“He began to search the room. He checked the top of the table. He found my iPhone and picked it up. Obafemi, the baby, began to cry.

“’Pick up the baby and keep him quiet!’ He ordered. Obanimi picked up her baby. She hid behind me, using my body as her shield.

“The bandit lifted the mattress and looked underneath it. There were some documents there. He quickly searched the documents. He found no money there. He dumped them on the floor.

“He turned, frustrated, back to me. ‘The money, now! Don’t tempt me! You are joking with your life. I’m sorry for you!’ He said.

“He opened the fridge. Quickly, he searched the content. Just a couple of beer and water bottles. Maybe a few other edibles of no interest to a fellow desperately looking for cash.

“’I told you the money is outside,’ I added.

“’Shurrup! You bloody liar!’ He snapped at me.

Okediji said at that time, there were some remote sounds of gunshots.



“’I told you the security here is very tight,’ I said. ‘For your safety, you better start leaving now.’

“’Shurrup!’ he shouted at me. ‘Not a word from you. I don’t want to hear anything about security again. I’m not afraid to die!’

“’But you are a young man,’ I reminded him. ‘You have a great future waiting for you. Our security guys are closing in.’

“There were more gunshots from the outside. The sounds were getting closer. He looked even more frustrated. By this time, my eyes had adjusted to the darkness and I got a fairly good look at him. He was no longer just a silhouette behind his torchlight.

“I could make out his mode of dressing: a T-shirt on long pants. He wore a round necklace of tiny white beads.

“I recognized him: he was one of the two escorts that KE, the driver who brought my goods from Accra, gave me to provide security from Lagos to Ile-Ife.



‘He found my wallet, containing about $300, roughly 1000 Ghana cedis, my credit cards, and identification cards. He took the money, squeezing it. The rest of the contents he threw on the floor, in anger.

“Then he saw my MacBook laptop and grabbed it, tucking it under his armpit.

“’You had better not remove those electronic gadgets,’ I quietly advised him. ‘They will track you with the electronic tracking numbers if you take them. It’s the surest way to trace you.’

“’Shurrup!’ he yelled again. ‘I don’t want your advice! You don’t sound scared. You want to lose your life! I will show you!’

“More gunfire was coming from the outside. Sounds of bullets echoing like droplets of rain were falling on the metal rooftop.



“’It’s time to leave, gentleman,’ I said. ‘You don’t want to get caught. The security people may not show you any mercy after catching you.’



“He pointed something at me. It was a rosary. He sneered, ‘Say your last prayer!’

“But he heard more gunfire and looked nervously at the door. He opened it. Then he turned back.

“’If you try to come after me, I will fire you,’ suggesting that he had a gun. ‘And I have petrol. I will burn down this entire place, together with you inside it.’

“’You should be leaving now,’ I advised him again. ‘They are coming.’



“’What is the password of the phone?’ he asked. I didn’t hesitate. I told him. He tried it and the phone opened.



“The baby began to cry again, this time, really loud.

“’Shut the baby up,’ he yelled.

“He brought out the money he pilfered from my wallet. The currency notes were all squeezed up. He threw them on the floor and tried to straighten the notes.

“’Are you sure this is not fake money?’ he wondered.

“’Fake money?’ I asked, incredulous. ‘How could I be carrying fake money with me?’

“’I don’t know you,’ he said. ‘I don’t trust you.’

“I didn’t expect there would be lots of trust to spare among the company he followed. But in some way, he seemed to trust me not to be violent. As he tried to flatten out the squeezed currency notes, he placed both his machete and knife on the floor, keeping the MacBook laptop tucked under his armpit.



“He asked me, ‘How do you shut down the cellphone?’

“’Just swipe it up from the bottom,’ I falsely instructed him. He tried to do that a couple of times, gave up and shoved the laptop and the money into his pocket.

He picked up the weapons again, and looked threatened at my stepdaughter. The baby yelled.



“’Yanriyan,’ he said to my stepdaughter, ‘you better keep the baby quiet. You hear me?’



“She said nothing, and he repeated the question a couple more times before she responded with ‘Yes.’



“’I will leave your electronic things outside,’ he said, as he stepped out. ‘Tell your people to look around the house to retrieve them. Try to come after me, and you are all dead. There are lots of us surrounding the building.’



“He sensed I didn’t believe him. He just didn’t sound convincing, but I realized he was desperate and nervous, predisposing him to be potentially dangerous. I needed to be extremely careful. A tap of the machete on my head could prove deadly.

“I didn’t want to be a dead or wounded hero. I froze where I lay on the floor, assuring him that I was non-threatening. I planned to remain physically unscathed and keep my stepdaughter and her baby unharmed.

“I was sorry for the baby. At five months, he was already trying to survive an armed robbery attack.

“Nigeria was already happening to him as he slept at night in his bed under the warmth of his mother’s breasts.

“With the padlock the bandit found on the door, he locked us inside, and stepped out into the night. We heaved a sigh of relief. The baby stopped crying. “’Thank goodness, it’s over,’ I told my stepdaughter, smiling at her to make the experience feel light.



“She looked relieved yet anxious. She hugged her son, who was already succumbing to sleep.

“’Call the chairman of the neighborhood watch,’ I instructed her.

“’I already did,’ she responded. ‘Immediately the bandit entered, I called him and whispered ‘Thief, thief,’ into the concealed phone.’



“’I see,’ I said. This explained a lot. ‘That’s why they were shooting. I thought it was just routine security practice. Thank goodness, this has ended so well.’”

Sadio Mane has constructed a stadium in his village, Bambali in Senegal.

He played football on the former mud pitch when he visited his village in 2022. He took it upon himself to transform it to a stadium.

He has now built a stadium, £455,000 hospital, £250,000 school, fuel station and post office for his people.

Mamman, who disclosed this while featuring on Channels Television’s programme, had noted that there was no timeframe for criminality, saying the time of the crime would not matter.



As the controversy over fake certificates from Benin Republic universities continues to reverberate following an investigative report, Nigerians on X (formerly Twitter) have asked the Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, to start his action against fake certificate holders with President Bola Tinubu.

SaharaReporters on Wednesday reported that the Minister said that security agencies would go after Nigerians with fake certificates from foreign countries whom he described as criminals.

Mamman, who disclosed this while featuring on Channels Television’s programme, had noted that there was no timeframe for criminality, saying the time of the crime would not matter.

Regarding people currently in the system who used fake foreign certificates to secure their position, Mamman said, “If along the line, we can trace that there are people already in the system.

“For instance, if a particular institution or operator has been operating, say in the last 10 years, we will check if we can get records of Nigerians who attended that institution. Once we do that, they are criminals and you know there is no timeframe for criminality. We will trace them.

“As long as we can lay our hands on their institutions and they are right here with us, certainly, the security agencies will go after them because they are criminals.”

Reacting to the minister’s proposed action of security agencies going after fake certificate holders, @brotherbarth in a post on X said that “The Tinubu's Minister of Education lacks moral ground to go after Nigerians with fake university Certificates, because Tinubu, his boss, submitted fake University Certificate to INEC.”

Also, @collinek47 said, “Let him start from dere then we know he's doing he's job well. Abi”



Another tweep, @ajaGunSEgun said, “First and foremost, you have to go after President Tinubu, who lied about attending Saint Paul School, Aroleya, Government colleges in Ibadan and Chicago State University first before you guys begin to go after others certificate forgers like Mr President.”



Also, @iam_wilson said, “Begin with Bola Tinubu,” to which @ElochukwuP said, “Yes let it stand (start) from the head,” and @dekezman01 said “Arrest Tinubu first,” while @benson_magbo said “Begin with your president! He's a certificate forger!”



@moslimfit said “Ask Tinubu first if this is right,” and @nalado80 asked “What about BOLA AHMED Tunubu Chicago Result SAGA while @ObaTrench said that the minister should “Start with @officialABAT, the Drug dealer that was rigged in as @NGRPresident.”



@AleeyuAutahh told the Minister of Education that “We will surely appreciate if you will maintain justice and set the bar high for this operation. Chicago University certificates should be investigated too.”



@Hadeyolla said, “Start with our president @officialABAT,” and @ApoesoBabatope said that “They should start from the top first o! Leadership by example!!!” while @hillary0424 said, “Let them start from the top , Nigeria has it way to redeem it self but no we choose the side of distortion.”



Also, @NwabudeDaniel2 said, “Arrest Peter mbah first. He forged nysc and became governor of Enugu state. @officialABAT.



“Please I feel so bad that a man could forge such a certificate and it was so proven by @officialnyscng DG yet his governor. It’s too bad.”



Another tweep, @martindbold wrote, “How about the total educational certificates of the current president of Nigeria and his Vice?



“Are they leading by example? Those are two objective questions that some want us to sweep under the carpet. But, the carpet is too full. Objective answers only. Thank you.”



@tjjones0079 said, “Then start with your INEC president, then we can take you serious. Corruption starts from your government,” and @BighomieRay asked, “Where does Tinubu stand in all of this? Is he in support or against?”



While @bonnypumping said that the minister should “Start with the National Assembly & House of Representatives. Many of them are using forged documents,” @victordaberechi said that “If you are not going to start from the president then you are just blabbing.”



@NaijamustBgreat said that “Nigerians will take them serious when ever we see Tinubu in handcuffs for his numerous crimes and forged documents.”
https://saharareporters.com/2024/01/03/security-agencies-will-go-after-nigerians-fake-foreign-certificates-within-system

Some villagers in Ondo State have begun to flee their homes, following incessant attacks suffered from the herdsmen-cum-bandits’ invasion.

This has become the fate of residents in some villages in the state after longtime reported cases of attacks, kidnappings and sometimes – killings, which have continued to disrupt business activities, undermine food security, displace a large number of inhabitants, and also cast heavy doubt on the safety of lives and property.

Research has shown that over 4,000 farmers have been killed in the South Western part of Nigeria from 2015 to date.

According to the Armed Conflict Location and Event Data, Nigeria has lost not less than 8,343 persons to the farmers-herders conflict since 2005.

This rising invasion of herders in the Southwest region subsequently led the governors in the six South-West states, with ranking traditional rulers, to form the Western Nigeria Security Network codenamed ‘Amotekun’ on January 9, 2020.

Despite the support from the state governments, the regional security outfit has continued to struggle to maintain and counter persistent attacks from the herdsmen.

Some residents have raised concerns about the wherewithal of the Amotekun corps to overpower and take control of the areas that have become dominated by the herdsmen.

Following investigations by The PUNCH, a resident who gave her name as Tinu said she stays in Akoko but visits Ifon often and that it is always a scary journey to embark on.

“I live after Arigidi Akoko but I often commute on the road that leads to Ifon. I have a friend I visit regularly. That road is now lonely, Amotekun men have practically been overpowered in that place because it’s like the epicentre of herdsmen. They sacked an entire community,” she said.

A monarch who didn’t want his name in print said he had to get extra local security to support the Amotekun but that they’re struggling to keep them away.

Although, the men of the Amotekun security corps didn’t say much about the challenges faced, residents gave their views about some of the problems the security network encountered in the cause of duty.

A man who simply gave his name as Joe and a graduate of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko, said Amotekun is powerless in certain parts of the state and his parents had to abandon their home because of the security crisis in their area.

“Which Amotekun? Bandits are killing people in Ose LG every day. Ifon, Okeluse, Molege, Arimogijaa communities are no-go areas till today. We even heard Amotekun were told to stop fighting the bandits when they lost like 5 of their officers in that environment. My parents had to leave the house to go and stay with my brother who lives in Ondo town,” he said.

While travellers have been attacked, killed and kidnapped, the farmers and their farmlands too weren’t been spared. From tales of being killed on their farms to escaping with injuries and destruction of farmlands, the farmers have had a bitter taste of the precarious security situation of the state.

Femi Adeyele, a farmer with 50 hectares of farmland in Igbara Oke, Ifedore Local Government Area, captured the prevailing situation in an interview with our correspondent.

Adeyele, who was still nursing the injuries he sustained from an attack by herdsmen when he met with our correspondent, narrated: “I met them (herdsmen) on my 50 hectares farm that had cassava planted on it. I was somewhere watching and I saw as they uprooted my cassava to feed their cows. This angered me and I came out of where I was and ordered them to leave my farm but instead, it seemed like they spoke some language to their cows and they surrounded me. As I tried to run, I put the phone to my ears feigning a call to Amotekun for help but they struck me with cutlass and I began to bleed.”

Another farmer, Yele Adaranijo, said the herdsmen usually lay ambush for farmers before they strike.

“They came to my farm and destroyed the corn we planted. They tried attacking my farmer colleagues and me but we begged them not to hurt us. We also begged them not to destroy our crops because that was our only means of livelihood. They’re always threatening us here; we are tired of this whole thing,” he said.
https://punchng.com/villagers-flee-as-bandits-overwhelm-amotekun-in-parts-of-ondo/

His notice of resignation was contained in a letter dated 29th December 2023 and addressed to the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Professor Mahmood Yakubu.

Rt Hon Edison Ehie has resigned as a member representing Ahoada East in the Rivers State House of Assembly and also the speaker of a group of lawmakers.


“This is to formally notify you of my voluntary resignation as Speaker and Member of the 10th Rivers State House of Assembly representing Ahoada East Constituency II with effect from the date of this letter.

“I wish to appreciate my colleagues and the people of my constituency for the rare opportunity to serve and hope to continue to give my utmost best in service to Rivers State subsequently,” the letter read.

The lawmaker did not give any reason for his resignation.

TOUR AT MASTER ENERGY: Masters instant Noodles (Part 1)

The Masters Energy Industrial City Situated At Onuaku, Uturu in Isuikwuato LGA, Abia State

....the quality Masters instant noodles is manufactured as well as other confectionaries coming into play very soon.

It will also interest you to know that every single product from Masters Energy is measured by standard and quality, products whose qualities can favorably compete in terms of quality elsewhere in the world.

The Masters Noodles plant at the moment has the capacity to produce at least one million cartons per month, translating 12 million cartons each year. Plans are also ongoing to ensure that in the first quarter of 2024, the capacity of the plant will be increased. That is not all.

Masters Energy instant noodles ranks as the first four noodle producing companies in Nigeria, with its teeming loyal customers spread across the country.

......to be continued.

ALL ABOUT MASTER ENERGY!!

#AbnTv #allbreakingnews #thinkbig #thinkpositive #MasterEnergy

The Supreme Court has reserved judgment in the appeal over the Kano State governorship election. A five-member panel of justices presided by Justice Inyang Okoro…

The Supreme Court has reserved judgment in the appeal over the Kano State governorship election.

A five-member panel of justices presided by Justice Inyang Okoro on Thursday reserved the judgment after listening to lawyers in the matter.
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Governor Abba Yusuf of Kano State and the New Nigeria People Party (NNPP) had filed the appeal challenging the November 17 judgment of the Court of Appeal, which nullified their victory in the March 19 governorship election.

The party are also notifying the apex court of the contradictions in the CTC of the judgment which upheld the governor’s election and awarded him the sum of N1 million in damages.
A three-member panel of justices led by Justice Moore A. Adumein upheld the appeal of Nasir Yusuf Gawuna of the All Progressives Congress (APC

The panel held that Yusuf of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) was not a registered member of the party and, therefore, not qualified to contest the election.

However, in the long argument before the apex court on Thursday, parties raised issues concerning the jurisdiction of the court in political party membership of a candidate.

The lawyers also argued over whether the court could “visit the sin” of INEC’ failure to sign over 160,000 ballot papers on the voters in Kano State.

https://dailytrust.com/breaking-supreme-court-reserves-judgment-in-kano-govship/