₦airaland Forum

RepoMan007:
Some Neighborhoods in ABIA or ONDO dont beat that bridge o.

Air Peace: We’ll respond to Nigeria’s threat to bar our carriers soon –UK govt

•No airport slot allocation in Nigeria-UK BASA, findings show


On August 1, 2024, Nigeria’s Aviation Minister, Festus Keyamo, issued a bold ultimatum to the United Kingdom government, setting the stage for a potential standoff between the two nations in the aviation sector. In his emphatic statement, Keyamo made it clear that unless the Nigerian airline, Air Peace, is granted the much-coveted landing slots at London Heathrow Airport, British Airways and Virgin Atlantic could face the possibility of being denied access to Nigeria’s major international gateways—Lagos and Abuja.

The minister’s warning is contained in a letter to UK Transport Secretary, Louise Haigh and reflects Nigeria’s growing determination to ensure fair treatment for its airlines on the global stage, emphasising that the nation’s aviation sector can no longer be sidelined in key international markets, especially as Air Peace has been forced to fly to Gatwick Airport.

Keyamo’s stance signals Nigeria’s readiness to assert its position, seeking reciprocity in international aviation agreements and standing firm against what is perceived as unequal access to lucrative routes.

This move, if acted upon, could disrupt the long-standing operations of British Airways and Virgin Atlantic, two of the most prominent international carriers servicing Nigeria. At the heart of the issue is Nigeria’s quest for equity and access to competitive markets, a challenge that Air Peace, one of Nigeria’s leading carriers, has faced in securing operational rights at one of the world’s busiest airports.

Keyamo told his UK counterpart giving Air Peace Gatwick airport was a blatant violation of the Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) between both countries, which promotes reciprocal rights for airlines.

Keyamo said that while British carriers enjoy unrestricted access to Nigeria’s tier one airports, which are in Abuja and Lagos, Air Peace has been unable to obtain slots at Heathrow. He demanded immediate action to rectify the situation, warning that Nigeria will not tolerate the unfair treatment of its national carrier.

No response from the UK government

Daily Sun reached out to UK’s Transport Secretary, to verify if she has received Keyamo’s letter and what the UK government intends to do to resolve the dispute. In response, an email was sent by her researcher, Mr. Henry Smith, saying the Daily Sun’s request has been transferred to the Department of Transport. Daily Sun then sent a Freedom of Information request to the UK’s Department of Transport and the department acknowledged receipt of the request, saying a response will be issued in due time.

Daily Sun also contacted the Minister’s office to verify if there has been a response from the UK government on the issue and his Special Adviser on Media, Mr. Tunde Moshood, said none has been received yet.

Airport slot allocation

Following the demands made by the Minister in his letter, Daily Sun sought to verify the issues raised. This paper analysed the 38-page Nigeria-UK BASA signed in 1988, which is administratively still in force and it revealed a very significant oversight: the absence of provisions addressing airport slot allocation. Though the aspect of frequencies was clearly spelt out in the BASA, airport slot alocation wasn’t. There has been no change of rules since the signing in 1988 and Daily Sun understands that the omission of airport slot allocation may likely be attributed to the non-scarcity of slots at the time of the agreement’s drafting. The allocation of slots at Heathrow airport is managed by Airport Coordination Limited (ACL), an independent slot coordinator in which the UK government has no input and is subject to the International Air Transport Association (IATA) guidelines.

An industry stakeholder who prefers anonymity, echoed Daily Sun’s findings, telling the paper that the Nigeria-UK BASA designates city destinations rather than specific airports. The stakeholder said Heathrow cannot be explicitly mentioned in the agreement as it falls outside the purview of the Department of Transport and that given the UK government’s lack of involvement in airport slot allocation, Air Peace must independently address this issue.

“The BASA specifies city destinations not particular airports. In the case of the UK, this means a bilateral agreement will never specify Heathrow since this is not in the remit of the department of transport. The UK government plays no part in airport slot allocation, so, the onus is on Air Peace to fight this battle. The politics is complicated. It is a matter of fact that considerable debt for Nigerian airlines that operated in London remain as they still owe large sums of money to UK airports. By failing to acknowledge the truth of our circumstances and also the fact that it is our own fault that we are not taking full advantage of the BASA, we do ourselves no favours, “ the stakeholder said.

Daily Sun can also report that there was a review of the BASA in 2008 which allowed for multiple airlines from each country and a substantial number of weekly flights. The UK and Nigeria may designate up to four airlines each and frequencies are restricted to 21 passenger services per week to each side; UK airlines – between any points in the UK and Abuja, Kano, Lagos and Nigerian airlines, between any point in Nigeria and London. While UK carriers have taken full advantage of these provisions, Nigeria’s absence of a national carrier has significantly hindered its ability to capitalise on it. To compensate, domestic carriers are often designated as ‘flag or national carriers’ for the purpose of fulfilling these agreements like in the case of Arik Air.

However, the 2003 International Civil Aviation Oganisation (ICAO) conference highlighted the growing importance of airport slot management due to capacity constraints at major airports. The conference recommended addressing slot-related issues and suggested prioritising countries with non-slot-constrained airports. The body said the principles of fairness, non-discrimination, transparency, and stakeholder consideration should be prioritised for any slot allocation system.

Way forward

Industry experts who spoke to Daily Sun said the minister’s letter to his UK counterpart is a bold move. Their argument is that by limiting Air Peace to Gatwick, while British carriers enjoy access to Lagos and Abuja, the UK is effectively hindering the Nigerian airline’s commercial viability and competitive position. They however pointed out that a collaborative approach involving the aviation authorities of both countries, Heathrow Airport, and Air Peace is essential to resolve this issue. Aviation expert, Amos Akpan said that while potential disruptions to travelers and businesses are a concern, the Minister’s actions aims to level the playing field and ensure fair competition between Nigerian and British carriers. While Alex Nwuba says a resolution that secures Heathrow slots for Air Peace is crucial for the growth of the Nigerian aviation industry.

Akpan said the Minister’s proposal to relocate British Airways and Virgin Atlantic operations away from Lagos and Abuja should be carefully considered because of its potential consequences. He advised that contingency plans to address the diplomatic tensions likely to arise from such a decision must be developed. Additionally, he said, strategies to minimise the inconvenience for passengers and businesses connecting to destinations beyond London Heathrow should be prioritised.

“Our minister of aviation is well within his role by writing to the UK transportation secretary threatening to stop BA and Virgin from operating to Lagos Abuja unless Air Peace is given slots at Heathrow and he has a strong case. The Lagos and Abuja traffic is a good negotiation tool that will impact BA and VA dislocation on this route. By logic it is also the Heathrow traffic that will make Air Peace gain commercial viability on the route.

“The best option is for UK CAA, Nigerian CAA, Heathrow ACL, and Air Peace to meet and work out solutions. At worst, it may involve extra financial costs in the interim. Limiting Air Peace to Gatwick while BA and VA operates Lagos and Abuja and Heathrow violates the principle in the BASA between the UK and Nigeria. This restriction to Gatwick harms Air Peace potential commercial viability on the London route. It does not position Air Peace to be competitive with BA and VA on the route. Reciprocity is the cardinal principle in BASA. If the BASA is not specific about Heathrow, Lagos and Abuja as the designated entry ports for carriers between the UK and Nigeria, then our minister can use the reallocation to other airports in Nigeria.

“This action may throw up unpleasant consequences like a diplomatic row. The worst may be discomfort to travelers and traders that use London Heathrow airport as their gateway and transit. But they are the reason for the struggle in the first instance. The minister’s action will pressure the British aviation authorities to also pressure the Heathrow airport slot coordinators to find slots for Air Peace,” Akpan said.

Nwuba told Daily Sun that the Minister’s initial public threat to demote British Airways to a lower-tier airport was a strategic misstep, which may create a negative atmosphere for constructive dialogue. He said however that the Minister can achieve his goals through persistence and he must maintain a firm stance as the UK may adopt a tough negotiating position.

“The Minister can get what he wants by being persistent and unrelenting but he must stick to his guns. The UK will also play hardball with him but Nigeria is a very important market for UK carriers. He however shouldn’t have started with the supposed threat of banishing BA to a low tier airport and publicly because it sets a negative tone to begin serious discussions,” he said.

Mikel Obi Reveals He Funded Nigeria's Olympic Football Team Flight to Brazil In 2016 Due To NFF's Inaction

Mikel, who was the team's captain and one of the three overage players, recalled the frustrating experience at the airport, where the team waited from morning till night for a flight that never came.

Former Nigerian football star John Mikel Obi has revealed that he single-handedly funded the U-23 Eagles team's flight to the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio, Brazil.

During his podcast, The Obi One Podcast, posted on YouTube on Thursday, Mikel exposed the corruption within the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), stating that he had to personally cover the team's travel expenses to ensure their participation in the tournament.

Mikel, who was the team's captain and one of the three overage players, recalled the frustrating experience at the airport, where the team waited from morning till night for a flight that never came.

According to Mikel, the NFF leadership failed to disburse the government-funded allocation for the team's flight to the tournament, despite the time-sensitive nature of the situation.

With the deadline looming, Mikel took initiative and personally covered the flight expenses, thereby securing the team's participation in the tournament, a decision made nearly eight years ago.

He said, “When I represented my country at the Olympics in Brazil, we had to fly there, and we waited from morning till night, waiting for a plane to take us to Brazil.

“There was no plane to take us to Brazil because there was in-fighting behind the scene of who was going to pick up the tab.

“The FA didn’t want to pick up the tab, the government, I think, released the money, but the FA or whoever the money got into his hands refused to release the money.

“So we waited at the airport from morning till night but there was no flight. I had to pay for that flight to take us to Brazil. And these are little things.”

The U-23 Eagles' subsequent bronze medal win in the men's football event at the 2016 Olympics was a testament to the team's resilience.

However, Mikel's revelation shed light on the systemic challenges Nigerian athletes face when representing the country internationally.

This issue was further highlighted by the failure of the Nigerian team to the Olympic Games in Paris, France, to win any medal at the event.

This disappointing performance despite a spending of over N8 billion sparked widespread outrage among Nigerians, who criticised the authorities for their incompetence.

This has led to calls for the resignation of Senator John Enoh, the Minister of Sports Development.

“I almost killed myself when my wife left” – Ex-Super Eagles star opens up about post-retirement struggles


Former Nigerian international goalkeeper Idah Peterside has revealed the deeply personal struggles he faced after his former wife left him, Soccernet.ng reports.

Peterside, who retired from football in 2002, transitioned into a new career as a television pundit with SuperSport shortly after hanging up his boots.

The former BBC Lions and Enyimba FC goalkeeper also started a church, devoting his time to evangelism. It was during this significant period of change in his life that his first wife departed, leaving Peterside to grapple with intense emotional turmoil.

Peterside, now the pastor of Christ Ambassadors Church in South Africa, detailed how the shame and emotional pain of his wife’s departure nearly drove him to take his own life.

Despite these challenges, he found solace and strength in his faith.

“I almost killed myself after my ex-wife left me, the shame was too much. I had just started a church and was just starting on SuperSport,” Peterside wrote on social media.

“Only God saw me through. I look back today and am very grateful to God.”

During his football career, Peterside played for Tembisa Classic FC and Moroka Swallows in South Africa, and for several teams in Nigeria, including Enyimba, Sharks, Udoji United, BCC Lions, and Iwuanyanwu Nationale (now Heartland FC).

He was also the first Nigerian football pundit on DSTV.

Peterside’s journey of faith began in 1996 while playing for Iwuanyanwu Nationale.

That same year, he attended Word of Faith Bible College, earning a diploma while continuing his football career.

After an unsuccessful stint in Israel, he moved to South Africa, joining Tembisa Classic and later transitioning into ministry and media work.

Burna Boy floats football academy


Nigerian singer and Grammy Award winner Damini Ogulu, also known as Burna Boy, has launched a football academy with training centres in Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt.

Infographics about the academy surfaced on the internet on Monday, and further checks revealed that the academy is open to players from ages 4–15 as well as players between 16 and 21 years.

“We aim to create an environment where kids can learn the fundamentals of football, combined with education, discipline, and technique, to excel in life beyond the sport,” the academy’s vision on their website read.

“We strive to engage parents in sports education, emphasising its importance alongside academic pursuits.”

English Premier League clubs Manchester City, Tottenham Hotspurs, Leicester City, and Brighton, as well as Championship side Watford, are among the partners listed on their website.

Other clubs are Hearts and Hamilton football clubs in Scotland.

The academy’s junior team has two centres in Lagos, Lekki and Surulere, as well as Abuja and Port Harcourt.

According to their website, their programmes run three days a week, with two hours of mandatory training per session.

Before the academy became public knowledge on the internet, they seemed to have been in operation for a while with results of seven friendly matches on their website—four wins, two defeats, and a draw.

richiemcgold:
VP Shetima go just dey frown face upandown.

Oga, shey you no dey smile at all?

Appoint me 2027 Kano campaign DG, Doguwa tells APC


A federal lawmaker from Kano State, Alhassan Doguwa, has vowed to deliver the state to the All Progressives Congress in the 2027 general elections.

Doguwa said that he would ensure success for the APC in the 2027 general elections, adding that he should be allowed to serve as the director-general of the party’s 2027 campaigns in the state.

Doguwa said this in Abuja on Sunday, while responding to a claim by another lawmaker, Abdulmumini Jibrin, that he posed a threat to the electoral fortunes of the APC in the state.

Jibrin had also said that Doguwa was a political liability to his party.

“I want to use this opportunity to respectfully request the leadership of our party to allow me to coordinate and serve as a D-G of the Kano State Campaign Project in 2027.

“I am not a political liability in Kano; I am an asset, a source of pride for the APC both in the state and the country,” Doguwa said.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that Doguwa is the only member of the House of Representatives elected under the platform of the ruling APC in Kano South Senatorial District

He represents Tudun-Wada/Doguwa Federal Constituency, and he is the Chairman of the House Committee on Petroleum Resources (Upstream),

He has been embroiled in a verbal attack with Jibrin, another lawmaker from Kano State who represents the Kiru/Bebeji federal constituency on the platform of the New Nigerian People’s Party.

Jibrin had earlier accused Doguwa of being an obstacle to peace in Kano State.

Court extends Lagos drug baron, Temo’s remand


The Federal High Court in Lagos has further remanded the alleged drug lord, Sulaimon Jimoh, also known as “Olowo Idi Ogede” or “Temo,” for an additional 14 days in the custody of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency.

Justice Akintayo Aluko extended Temo’s remand while granting an ex parte motion filed by the NDLEA.

The order was made on Friday after the NDLEA prosecution counsel, Lambert Nor, argued the ex parte motion for an extension to remand the defendant.

Aluko extended the remand order after hearing the arguments and reviewing the court processes filed before the court.

Nor told the court, “We seek this extension under the provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the Administration of Criminal Justice Act 2015, and the Federal High Court Civil Procedure Rules.

“The extension is crucial as we continue to unravel the suspect’s extensive drug network.”

He further explained that the NDLEA was waiting on responses from various agencies and institutions connected to the case.

“Preliminary investigations have revealed a broader and more sensitive network of drug activities, both nationally and internationally, which require further examination,” Nor stated.

The NDLEA lawyer emphasised the need to continue holding Temo in custody to avoid violating his rights or any court order.

“We need this additional time to ensure that we have a complete picture of the drug trafficking organisation that the suspect allegedly operates, so the court can be fully informed,” he added.

In support of the motion, the NDLEA submitted a 13-paragraph affidavit, deposed by Kayode Abu Ojo, a litigation officer with the agency.

The affidavit highlighted that the initial 14-day remand, ordered by the court on July 26, 2024, was disrupted by the nationwide protests and the unavailability of the suspect’s counsel, which caused delays in the investigation.

“That in the course of the same time, counsel for the suspect was not available for some time to enable the suspect to complete his statement. And that, by the time the counsel for the suspect came, quite a substantial time of the 14 days granted by the court had been lost.

“The ongoing investigation has uncovered a more complex and sensitive network of drug activities, with inquiries sent to sister agencies and other relevant bodies still pending. This makes it necessary to seek additional time,” the affidavit stated.


After reviewing the submissions, Justice Aluko ruled in favour of the NDLEA’s request.

“The application has merit, and the order sought is hereby granted,” the judge held. The court adjourned the matter to August 23, 2024, for the NDLEA to present its investigation report.

Temo, who had been a wanted drug baron for over a decade, was initially remanded on July 26, 2024, and the case was adjourned till August 9, 2024, pending the outcome of the ongoing investigation.

However, when the case came up on Friday, it was further adjourned for an additional 14 days.

RepoMan007:
how many brits are coming here? The few diplomats will be taken care of or go through Benin republic. Expatriates will ask you land them inside Aso Rock and you must obey because you need to to breathe their intellect upon your cocoa yam economy.

We don’t want to lose our identity, dignity – Northern Yoruba obas tells Ooni


Yoruba traditional rulers with their domains in the northern part of the country have pleaded with the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi not to abandon them.

The monarchs, majorly from Kwara and Kogi States, in the North Central regions, during a courtesy visit to the Ooni in Ile-Ife, said they needed all necessary assistance from the kinsmen to retain a link with their ancestral roots.

A statement issued by the Ooni’s spokesperson, Moses Olafare stated that the monarchs were led to the Ile-Oodua palace by the Obaro of Kabba, Oba Dele Owoniyi.

Oba Awoniyi is his remark, said, “Kabiyesi, we have a lot of work to do for our people with regards to where we found ourselves in modern Nigeria. There are real issues of development deficit which I am sure we can overcome with your might and influence. Be assured that our loyalty to the ancient throne of Oduduwa is never in doubt.”

Corroborating the Obaro’s position, the Elulu of Mopa, Oba Muyiwa Ibeun, said the monarchs in northern region look up to the Ooni for leadership, saying, “this is homecoming for me and my colleagues here, we are here to thank Your Imperial Majesty as well as commending you for dignifying the prestigious traditional institution.”

In his remark, the Elejuku of Ejuku (Kogi State), explained that most children of Oduduwa of Okun origin are at great disadvantage as they are often regarded as second or third Yoruba.

“Kabiyesi Ooni, we are tired of being referred to as lesser Yoruba because of our location, those who demarcated us in those days did not consult us and that is why they did not factor in our peculiarities.

“We want you to use your connection and position to return us home and reunite us with our kinsmen. We are your children and we cannot afford to be regarded as lesser descendants of Oduduwa.” The monarch noted.

The stance was buttressed by the Olusin of Isin, Kwara State, Oba Solomon Oloyede who added that the Ooni must not relent in ensuring that all descendants of Oduduwa are in perfect condition at all times.

Responding, Oba Ogunwusi assured the monarchs that their kinsmen in the southwest region duly recognised and appreciated them.

N1bn lawsuit over miracle soap, water: Prophet Jeremiah, VDM, who blinks first?

It's time for wealthy pastors to give back to Nigerians, says Prophet Jeremiah Omoto Fufeyin

The battle line is drawn between Prophet Jeremiah Fufeyin, founder and head prophet of Christ Mercyland Deliverance Ministry, Warri, Delta State and controversial Nigerian activist Martins Otse Vincent, popularly known as Verydarkman after the latter has threatened to report the former to the National Agency for Food and Drugs Administration and Drugs, NAFDAC, office for selling miracle soap and water to his church members.

In a viral video posted on Instagram, VDM had faulted Pastor Jeremiah for selling the power he claims God gave to him for free to his members.

Dissatisfied with the popular activist’s comments, the Delta state-born prophet has not only instituted a lawsuit of N1 billion against VDM, but also, he has sought for a restraining order calling him out for selling miracle soap and water.

Reacting to the cleric’s lawsuit, in another viral video, Verydarkman has promised to meet the former in court.

He, however, threatened to storm the court with 800 deaf people, 700 blind people, including 36 women who were looking for the fruit of the womb.

“I am coming to the court with 800 deaf people, 700 blind people, and 36 women who are looking for the fruit of the womb, you must use your healing water and soap to heal all of them in front of the Judge.”

As if that was not enough, VDM also ordered for the miracle water, which he took to the homes of the deaf and blind people to test its efficacy.

“I have gone to test prophet Jeremiah omoto fufeyin healing water on the blind and physical disabilities at the biggest disability home in the whole of Abuja @prophetjeremiahomoto na so e Dey work?,” the activist wrote on IG.

Meanwhile, VDM is not a stranger to controversial issues. The fearless activist, who has become a pain in the neck of his victims, has been in and out of the police net over his controversial comments since he gained recognition on social media.

Recall that in March 2024, VeryDarkMan was arrested on allegations of cyberbullying and cyberstalking, including false accusations against Nigerian actresses and officials.

Buhari, Kyari blocked my attempt to purchase oilfield: Elumelu

Mr Elumelu said his investment company, Heir Holdings, had approached the Buhari administration to acquire an oil field with an offer of about $2.5 billion around 2017.


Business tycoon Tony Elumelu said former President Muhammadu Buhari and deceased chief of staff Abba Kyari rejected his company’s request to buy an oilfield despite raising billions of dollars to fund the deal.

Mr Elumelu’s investment company, Heir Holdings, had approached the Buhari administration to acquire an oilfield with an offer of about $2.5 billion around 2017, the business magnate told Financial Times in an interview released on Friday.

However, the former president and his right-hand man, according to Mr Elumelu, declined the offer, asserting that they could not allow an oilfield of such “strategic importance to fall into the hands of a private operator.”

Speaking with the Financial Times, Mr Elumelu said the rejection “defied logic” given that “he would have been purchasing it from a foreign company.”

Mr Elumelu, who chairs the UBA, said he soon discovered the bane of the petroleum industry, oil theft, which was a major factor influencing international oil companies’ divestment from onshore assets.

Having acquired a 45 per cent stake in an oilfield about three years ago, Mr Elumelu said he was impacted by the activities of criminal gangs who constantly robbed his pipeline and stole enough crude that caused his company to shut down.

With a 45 per cent stake acquired in an oilfield about three years ago, Mr Elumelu voiced his frustration after oil thieves robbed his pipeline and stole enough crude that caused his company to shut down production.

The frustration prompted him to tweet in 2022, “How can we be losing over 95 per cent of oil production to thieves?”

Mr Elumelu said, “The government should know, they should tell us” the masterminds behind the oil theft. “Our security agencies should tell us who is stealing our oil. You bring vessels to our territorial waters, and we don’t know?”

Mr Buhari’s spokesperson, Garba Shehu, did not immediately respond to Peoples Gazette’s request for comments on Mr Elumelu’s claim, as SMS and WhatsApp messages sent to him were unanswered.

Tjra:
Best: Ken Nnamani
Worst: Ahmed Lawan

Best Of Worst: Godwill Akpabio


Special mention/accolade: David Mark.

sreamsense:
To him now, he is doing guy not knowing he is working curses upon himself and unborn generation thinking he is mocking him. He wants to use the man of God to get public star. No respect for elders, no fear of God and no respect for any authority. What do you want to get by spoiling and bringing someone else down? If he is not of God, leave him for God to weigh His work and reward him himself. Judgement is of God, he will reward everybody one day according to their deeds

Bala Mohammed turned against Tinubu after saving him from court – Dogara alleges


Former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara, has berated Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed for making a sudden u-turn on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Dogara claimed that after allegedly rigging his way into office, Mohammed sought Tinubu’s help to avoid legal trouble while singing the President’s praises at the time.

Dogara, however, said just months later, the governor has now labelled Tinubu as “inept, incompetent, and incapable of running Nigeria

DAILY POST recalls that Governor Bala Mohammed had criticised the President’s policies in the wake of the #EndBadGovernance protest.

Mohammed had berated the Tinubu-led Administration saying its policies were inflicting hardship on the people.

Mohammed who doubles as the Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Governors Forum, the main opposition party in the country, also urged President Tinubu to change his policies adding that it may jeopardise his reelection come 2027

But reacting to the governor’s outburst in a press release titled “On Governor Bala Mohammed’s Latest Tirade and Truculent Buffoonery,” the former Speaker stated that the Governor’s recent utterances were uncalled for and unnecessary.

His words, “To buttress the point being made, when Gov. Bala Mohammed was in court after rigging himself into office and desperately needed PBAT to save him, he was busy singing his praises to the highest heavens and telling the world how amazing PBAT was, not even minding the fact that he is the Chairman of the PDP Governors Forum,” he added.

Yakubu Dogara added, “Just months after PBAT saved him, he has turned around to describe the President as ‘now inept, incompetent, and incapable of running Nigeria.’ I will even invite him to chair our 2027 presidential campaigns if he continues this way.”

He stated further, “No doubt, these are trying moments in Nigeria, with lots of nerves in the air and lots of spitting into the political wind. The job of leaders, irrespective of the political tribe they belong to, is to ensure that we bring this crisis to a responsible end by appealing to governments at all levels to scramble to meet some of the legitimate demands of the protesters, most especially hunger and pervasive insecurity in the national interest.”

Yakubu Dogara stressed that “it is certainly not a time to engage in blowing all the dog whistles at once in the irresponsible manner Gov. Bala Mohammed did.”

The former Speaker said, “For me, it didn’t come as a surprise because I had long ago, both in writing and on live TV, denounced him as a thug who speaks in the manner of thugs and understands only the language of thuggery.”

“I am penning these lines to further disavow him and to tell those who don’t know that although Gov. Bala Mohammed is one of us, he is not all of us. Bauchi State is home to tested leaders who were not raised like mushrooms and who will not dare speak or operate in a manner that reveals contempt for rules, precedent, order, stability, and national cohesion. But Gov. Bala Mohammed does not only do so; he thrives in it,” he added.

According to him, “Not long ago, I said of him, ‘any time the Governor speaks either by himself or through his aides, it is always an outburst of profanity which debases and demeans all of us.’”

“A leader is supposed to nurture and inspire the people he leads into positive action as opposed to indulging in wanton self-adulation and praise.”

Speaking on the governor’s competency, Dogara claimed Bala Mohammed had governed Bauchi State for a little over six years with no functional social amenities.

He said Bauchi under the governor is one of the states with the highest number of out-of-school children in Nigeria, adding that he has built no functional schools.

“Just one example: my Alma Mater, the famous Bauchi Teachers College, located right under his nose, now lies in ruins. Let him tell the world which of the hospitals in the state is fully functional and how many doctors he has employed. The list is endless.”

“Yet, amid the destitution and squalor that Bauchi State found itself under his watch, he has built the biggest government house for himself and his family and the best family house in Northern Nigeria, if not in the whole country,” he added.

“As it is, we wait to see whether the ‘Kaura 2027’ his cult followers printed on their gowns will be a POLITICAL scandal or an execution DATE.”

wirinet:
NAFDAC certified the soap for cleaning of body and not for miracles and supernatural powers. That's a misleading claim and in other climes you could be sued for making false claims.

5 Former Super Eagles players who became pastors

Many players plan their post-retirement lives, often staying within the football world as managers or pundits. Others explore business ventures or transition to different sports, such as golf.

In the Super Eagles, former players like Samson Siasia, Finidi George, and Augustine Eguavoen transitioned into coaching after retirement. Meanwhile, players such as John Obi Mikel, Nwankwo Kanu, and Jay-Jay Okocha have chosen different paths.

However, a few former players take a surprising turn and become pastors, dedicating their lives to preaching the gospel of Christ.


Taribo West

Renowned for his weird hairstyle throughout his playing career, Taribo West significantly impacted the football world over 17 years. Now 50, West enjoyed notable stints with top European clubs including Inter Milan, AC Milan, and Auxerre.

The tough-tackling defender featured 42 times for the Super Eagles. He was part of the team that won gold at the Atlanta 1996 Olympics and also represented Nigeria at two World Cups and AFCON tournaments.

West, who in 2014 founded his church, Shelter in the Storm Miracle Ministries of All Nation,” in Lagos, revealed in a 2021 interview that he “met God one on one” before his switch into ministry. He once confessed of being involved in occultic practices during his playing days.

It partly reads, “Why would I switch from being a footballer to becoming a pastor? I saw God one on one. That’s where my transition started—from the field to the pulpit,” West told the BBC.

“In the twinkle of an eye, I just heard an audible voice. And it came like a slap. It said: ‘Switch, turn.’ I turned. It said: ‘Look at the woman. Look for her now and call that woman and apologise to her. I said that to you.’ That can only be a voice from God.

“So I switched, like a Robocop, I start searching for the woman, and when this sister came all the way from America, she told me a lot of prophecies. And she told me in the next one or two years; I would open a church. All the prophecies she gave me came to pass.”

Alloy Agu

Alloy Agu was a key player for Nigeria from 1988 to 1994, helping them win the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations and being part of their first-ever World Cup squad that same year.

At the club level, Alloy Agu played for local teams NEPA and ACB Lagos before moving to Dutch side MVV Maastricht, then RFC Liège in Belgium, Kayserispor in Turkey, and made 28 appearances for the Super Eagles.

In a 2021 interview, Agu revealed that he retired early from football due to the covenant he made with God.

He’s currently a pastor at Christ Divine Church of God.

Peterside Idah

The former Nigerian goalkeeper and current TV pundit played for Nigerian clubs like Enyimba, Heartland, and BCC Lions before moving to South Africa, where he joined Temba Classic and Moroka Swallows.

Peterside revealed in an interview that he gave his life to Christ in 1996 while playing for Iwuanyanwu Nationale (now Heartland FC) and also attended a bible school (Word of Faith Bible College), where he graduated with a diploma the same year.

He also stated he knew he would be a pastor upon retirement. “I knew it from a very tender age. My parents are pastors of Assemblies of God Church, and they influenced me a whole lot. So, as a young person, I was ministering in the youth church, I became a youth leader in the church, and I was ministering as a young lad at age 11. At a point, I used to lead the youth choir as well, and somehow I knew this was going to be my life, beyond every reasonable doubt.”

He is currently the pastor at Christ Ambassadors Church in Kempton Park, Johannesburg.

Chidi Nwanu

Chidi Nwanu, whose club career spanned over 15 years, represented several teams, including the defunct ACB Football Club of Lagos, Westerlo, Beveren, and Anderlecht, all in Belgium.

He is best remembered for his outstanding performances with the Super Eagles during the USA ’94 World Cup and was also part of the 1988 Olympic squad. Nwanu earned 20 caps for Nigeria throughout his international career.

He is currently a pastor in the Prophetic and Deliverance Ministry in the United States.

Ikpe Ekong

Former Nigeria midfielder, Ikpe Ekong, is another player who transitioned to a new path after retiring from football. The Lagos-born ex-footballer began his career in 1995 with Julius Berger and retired in 2016 after playing for 12 different clubs across Europe and Africa.

In an interview, Ekong revealed he mounted the pulpit, following an encounter with God.

“I was privileged to have seen Jesus three times and the fourth time; he appeared to me at my villa in Sweden. It was an experience that no word can chronicle. So the next thing I did was to study and acquire more knowledge for the credentials given to me by God through His son, Jesus.

“He (Jesus) characteristically told me to bring his people together. I have been involved in the ministry for years; I travel around the world to visit helpless (people), prisoners and I have testified in churches to sportsmen and women.”

He is currently serving as a pastor at The Centre International Church City Church in Sweden.

An Ondo State Chief Magistrates’ Court in Igbokoda has sentenced the Baale of Ebute Ipare Community in Ilaje Local Government Area of the state, Francis Ogundeji, to three years’ imprisonment for disobedience to a court order.

The judgement was delivered on Monday by Senior Magistrate E.A Manuwa, but a copy of the ruling was made available to our correspondent on Thursday.

According to the judgement, Ogundeji and one Ikuejamoye Thomas were charged with selling land in the community in November 2022, against a court order.

It was gathered that the state High Court sitting in Okitipupa and a magistrates’ court in Igbokoda had restrained people from selling the land.

However, the traditional ruler, in collaboration with Thomas, defied the court order and sold the land.

The convicts were also charged with falsehood, as they backdated the receipt of the land sale. They faced four counts, including contempt of court and falsehood.

During the proceedings, the charges were read to the defendants in English and interpreted into Yoruba to the satisfaction of the court.

The charge sheet read: “That you, Francis Ogundeji ‘M’, a farmer, and (2) Ikuejamoye Thomas ‘M’, a pensioner, and others at large, on a date in November 2022 at about 12 p.m. at Ebute Ipare Community in the Igbokoda Magisterial District, did conspire together to commit an offence, to wit, contempt of court, and thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 517 of the Criminal Code Cap 37 Vol. 1 Laws of Ondo State of Nigeria, 2006.

“That you, Francis Ogundeji ‘M’, a farmer, and (2) Ikuejamoye Thomas ‘M’, a pensioner, and others at large, on the same date, time, and place in the aforementioned Magisterial District, did disrespect the order of the court delivered on the 10th of April 2019 in Suit No: HOK/51/2018 by selling Ebute Ipare Ogunowo descendant land and thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 133 (9) of the Criminal Code Cap 37 Vol. 1 Laws of Ondo State of Nigeria, 2006.

“That you, Francis Ogundeji ‘M’, a farmer, and (2) Ikuejamoye Thomas ‘M’, a pensioner, and others at large, on the same date, time, and place in the aforementioned Magisterial District, did forge the land receipt of Ebute Ipare Community Ogunowo descendant land by backdating the receipt of sale to read November 2022 instead of 16th April 2017, knowing it to be false, and thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 467 of the Criminal Code Cap 37 Vol. 1 Laws of Ondo State of Nigeria, 2006.

“That you, Francis Ogundeji ‘M’, a farmer, and (2) Ikuejamoye Thomas ‘M’, a pensioner, and others at large, on the same date, time, and place in the aforementioned Magisterial District, did disrespect the court order delivered on the 11th of September 2018 in Suit No: MKD/3M/2018, which was presided over by His Worship E.A Manuwa, Magistrate Grade I at the time, over the tussle of the land committee of Ebute Ipare Community, and thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 133 (1 & 9) of the Criminal Code Cap 37 Vol. 1 Laws of Ondo State of Nigeria, 2006.”

The magistrate found Ogundeji and Thomas guilty of the offence in count three and sentenced them to three years imprisonment with an option of a fine of N150,000 each.

However, the court discharged and acquitted Thomas on counts one, two, and four.

The magistrate ruled: “The first defendant, Ogundeji Francis, is hereby sentenced to three months’ imprisonment on count one or to pay the sum of N30,000 to the state government as a fine.


“The first defendant, Ogundeji Francis, is also sentenced to three months’ imprisonment or to pay the sum of N30,000. The second defendant is hereby discharged and acquitted of the offence in count two.

“In count three, both the first and second defendants are sentenced to three years’ imprisonment each or to pay a fine of N150,000 each to the state government.

“The first defendant, Ogundeji Francis, is also sentenced to one month’s imprisonment or to pay the sum of N30,000 to the state government. The second defendant is hereby discharged and acquitted of the offence in count four.”

However, the court ruled that the terms of imprisonment for the first defendant would run consecutively.

Denalarian:
Aging is inevitable.. see ogungbe looking like a G-pa! Remember the Keke and D1 show on AIT back then.. age gracefully, it's a gift not everyone will be blessed with

Noerection:
This is what Peter Pandora Gbajue Obi wants by instigating protesters against the Tinubu government but he has failed big time

CriminalTinubu:
Pesin wey dey calculate him brother burial money na him you dey ask for money. Tinubulation affect everybody - poor, rich, big belle, home and abroad.

Even Dangote was crying last month.

GOFRONT:
It will never be our portion in jesus name

kakaG:
Where is she from Biko?

yarimo:
That senator must be from Abia state, a terrorist supporter