I have never been an admirer of the Minister of the Interior, Ogbeni Rauf Adesoji Aregbesola. In my humble opinion, he was a gargantuan disaster when he governed Osun State by plunging the state into avoidable debts with his joke of ‘socialist’ and ‘welfarist’ programs that turned his people into mendicants. He failed to utilize the agrarian opportunities in the state which has what it takes to effectively compete with Benue State. Rather than think up strategies of how to export food items from there to the rest of the world and earn foreign exchange, he justified his needless borrowings and owing of the salaries of civil servants as well as pensioners by blaming a shortfall from the Federation Account. Did his people keep faith with him for three sturdy years at the courts and election petitions tribunal between 2007 and 2010 to hear asinine excuses?
However, for the first time I whole-heartedly agreed with him when he denounced the secessionist activities of the apologists of the Oduduwa Nation largely spearheaded by Sunday Adeyemo a.k.a Sunday Igboho, Professor Banji Akintoye etc. He said: “My most important message for this gathering is to let you know that those advocating for the Yoruba nation are fools and ignorant of the consequences of their action. Nigeria is the reason the Western nations respect the Blackman globally.
“Maybe these secessionists did not know that if any crisis or war happens in Nigeria now, its fallout will linger for another 50 years. So we must guide this unity jealously. Although things are not perfect yet, I believe we should rather advocate better government rather than agitate for secession.”
Secession is an ill wind that blows nobody any good and it will only throw up an avalanche of challenges that may consume the fragmented new nations. Sunday Igboho’s claim to fame was his expulsion of some alleged criminal Fulani elements in Ibarapa. This earned him heroic status so much so that he became one of the most important non state actors in the entire Yoruba land. Many states beckoned on him to help ‘liberate’ them from the yoke of the blood thirsty Fulani herdsmen. Not satisfied with his status as a Yoruba liberator, he wanted more especially as an unsuccessful GoFundMe campaign had been done by some of his fanatical supporters on his behalf in the Diaspora. He became a champion of the Oduduwa Nation and has been organizing rallies in support of it all over the south west. He even plans to hold the mother of all rallies on June 12 – the nation’s democracy day.
An Oduduwa nation like I opined above isn’t the solution to the challenges in the south west as the Yorubas are not as homogenous as people believe. There is still the ugly trend of discrimination based on the part of Yoruba land that you come from. An Egba man holds an Ijebu man in suspicion despite the fact that they are from the same state. There was the Ife Modakeke crisis which consumed hundreds of thousands of lives despite their being neighbours with lot of intra marriages. There is the current fierce agitation for an Ibadan state by the people of Ibadan who feel marginalized in Oyo State. That homogeneity that is a key attribute of nationhood is lacking in Yorubaland to make an Oduduwa nation successful or even viable.
Igboho must have looked at the economic angle to the struggle as exemplified by his Comrade-in-Arms, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu who is not only anchoring the struggle from relative comfort in the United Kingdom – far away from the theatre of blood bath, but has attracted a lot of funding from his sympathetic kinsmen as an American lobbying firm now handles his public relations abroad which doesn’t come cheap. Who was Sunday Igboho before 2020? If the Nigerian State was more serious, he would never have emerged in the first place.
What Nigeria needs is restructuring and not secession which will cost more bloodshed. We should have learnt our lessons from the avoidable Civil War where millions of lives were lost which the late Biafran Warlord, Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu-Ojukwu later described in an interview as a ‘monumental waste.’ Those beating the drums of war should be very careful for what they wish for.
True federalism should be practiced as there should be devolution of powers and fewer items on the exclusive list. Why should states be running cap in hand to Abuja at the end of the month to beg for federal government allocation like babies beg their mothers for breast milk? Why can’t there be resource control similar to what obtained in the Lyttleton Constitution of 1954 which enabled the late Sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo develop the Western Region through his free primary education program, the building of Cocoa House, scholarships for undergraduate studies in the UK, the building of the Liberty Stadium, the first television station in Africa etc?
California is rich and powerful and is the seventh largest economy in the world if it were a country because of the presence of the Silicon Valley and Hollywood. She doesn’t go begging Washington DC for aid every month; rather it does the opposite by remitting to the centre. New York is powerful because it houses the Wall Street and all other financial institutions in the US. It is the economic nerve centre of the US and by extension the world. It has no business begging Washington DC for funds. Most of the states in the south have their rich farmlands where they grow crops which they not only sell domestically but export the excess as well.
Lagos shouldn’t be the only part of the country where there is a major seaport. Other major seaports should be built in places like Ondo, Rivers, Delta, Bayelsa, Akwaibom which will greatly diffuse development to these places and decongest Lagos which is the smallest but the most inhabited state in the nation.
Some secessionist apologists have argued that Nigeria is an artificial creation by the British and that it is high time we went our separate ways. However, it is possible for us to understand our peculiarities and live in harmony with our differences rather than take up arms against one another in needless strife.
Secession guarantees nothing and it is not Uhuru when it happens as the victory is most times pyrrhic. South Sudan is still embroiled in crisis years after it broke away from Sudan. Pakistan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka that broke away from India are third world nations and near failed states as majority of their citizens live below the poverty line. None of the fifteen countries that emerged from the disintegrated Union of Soviet Socialist Republics is a First World Nation as the vast majority of their citizens’ grapple with getting the basics on a daily basis not knowing what life has in store for them.
Concerned Nigerians should continue to dialogue on ways in which restructuring can become a reality and mount pressure on the government at the centre to make it happen. Demagogues like Sunday Igboho should be totally shunned by all sensible Nigerians especially the Yorubas whose antecedent of sophistication dates back to the 19th century when they produced the first graduate and lawyer in the person of Christopher Sapara-Williams in 1855.
A word is enough for the wise!
Tony Ademiluyi is the Co Founder of The Vent Republic – www.theventrepublic.com and wrote from Lagos.

Source: https://theventrepublic.com/2021/06/10/aregbesolas-wise-intervention-tony-ademiluyi/

The widow of Late Pastor Temitope Balogun Joshua a.k.a T.B. Joshua, Evelyn Joshua has said that she is not amazed at the death of her husband describing it as an act of God.
She spoke when a delegate from the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, led by the Commissioner for Home Affairs, Prince Anofiu Elegushi, paid her a condolence visit in the Ikotun area of Lagos.
TB Joshua passed on in Lagos on Saturday at the age of 57, a week to his 58th birthday.
His widow, while speaking to officials of the state government, said the death did not come to her as a surprise.
She said: “What happened was an act of God. There is time for everything, like my husband would say. That was the word I knew from him very well. This is the job he was known for. This is what he was living for. That is what he was going to die for. So, it didn’t come to me as a surprise. I wasn’t surprised when it happened. As we all know, he was in service that day. So, that’s it.”
Joshua’s wife appealed to Sanwo-Olu to participate actively in her husband’s burial, which she said would be made public very soon.
Speaking, Elegushi responded: “We are here on the directive of the Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu to pay a condolence visit and offer prayers to the family of our beloved pastor and prophet TB Joshua.”
The delegation later presented a condolence letter signed by the governor to the family of the deceased.
Meanwhile, there are indications that the cleric’s family will meet before the end of this week on the burial arrangement.
Source: https://theventrepublic.com/2021/06/10/i-am-not-amazed-by-t-b-joshuas-death-widow/

The Federal Government has insisted that over-the-top platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Whatsapp and Twitter must be registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) and the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) to continue their operations in the country.
It also listed conditions that Twitter must fulfill before the suspension of its operations in Nigeria could be lifted.
The Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, while briefing State House correspondents after a Federal Executive Council meeting in Abuja, also said Twitter had reached out to the federal government for talks on resolving the issues that led to the suspension of its operations in Nigeria.
However, the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) doubled down on mobilising pressure on the federal government to reverse the suspension with a plea to the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Saudi Arabia and others to impose a visa ban on President Muhammadu Buhari and Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mr. Abubakar Malami, and other cabinet members involved in stifling free speech in Nigeria.
A day after Mohammed announced the suspension, Malami, in a statement last Saturday had directed the prosecution of those still tweeting after the suspension.
Also, the Minority Caucuses of the two chambers of the National Assembly rallied opposition of the federal government’s directive stopping Nigerians from tweeting.
Also, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has urged Nigeria to immediately reverse the suspension of Twitter, saying it is tantamount to opposing free speech.
Mohammed said Twitter yesterday morning reached out to the federal government, calling for a high-level discussion to resolve its operation suspension issue.
He said: “Yes, it is true they’ve made, reached…only this morning I got, you know, communication that yes, they are now ready to hold senior-level discussions with us. Just now, I just confirmed with my colleague now. Yes, we just got the information now.“
Asked whether the government will hold the discussion with Twitter, Mohammed replied: “Why not? We will. But our conditions are already laid out to you. One, to do business in Nigeria, they must register as a Nigerian company. Two, they must be licensed and three, they will have to refrain from using the platform for activities that are inimical to the growth of Nigeria, to the corporate existence of Nigeria.
“From there, any other issue can come up. We already talked to them.”
He stated that the microblogging platform was suspended because it provided an avenue for people threatening the corporate existence of Nigeria.
He also accused Twitter founder, Mr. Jack Dorsey, of helping to fund last October’s #EndSARS protest while allowing the leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, to use the platform to call for the killing of policemen.
He said Twitter failed to take down Kanu’s tweets despite repeated requests to do so.
He listed conditions that must be met even if there is a discussion with Twitter to include that it must now be registered in Nigeria as a business concern.
Apart from Twitter, he said other social media platforms like Facebook, WhatsApp, and Instagram must now be registered in the country.
According to him, there is no infringement on freedom of speech with the suspension of Twitter because Nigerians can still use other platforms such as Facebook and Instagram.
He also denied that the suspension is not effective as Twitter is losing money as a result of the action.
He said: “For those that have heard that Oh, the ban is not effective, to the best of my knowledge, I think the ban is very effective. Otherwise, how would they be complaining that they are losing billions of naira every day if the ban is not effective? But that is not the issue.”
On the circumstances that led to the suspension of Twitter, Mohammed said all social media groups would have to be registered like they did in other countries, for them to function now in Nigeria.
He added: “As you are aware, last Friday the federal government suspended Twitter operations in Nigeria indefinitely, and the reason we gave was because of the persistent use of the Twitter platform for activities that are capable of undermining Nigeria’s corporate existence.
“On Friday, also the government directed the regulatory body, the National Broadcasting Commission, to immediately commence the process of licensing all OTT, Over The Top social media operations in Nigeria.
“And I believe that we’ve done that I think by today, that advert is out asking that all OTT and social media coverage operating in Nigeria should apply for registration and licensing.
“I want to repeat that is because Twitter has consistently made its platform available to those who are threatening Nigeria’s corporate existence that is the reason for suspending their operations in Nigeria.
“Because we’ve found out that Twitter is actually the platform of choice for a particular separatist leader who resides outside the country and issues directives to its members to attack symbols of government authority, such as the police, the military, the electoral commission offices, correctional centres, etc. And this is being done willfully and consistently without any consequences from Twitter.
“You know, no country worth its name will tolerate that. And no company, no matter its self-importance, will force any nation to accept this.
“It may interest you to know that most of the OTT and social media platforms operating in Nigeria do not have any office in Nigeria and do not pay taxes to the Nigerian government for the billions they earn here. That is not the best practice globally, and that is why we are insisting that for you to operate in Nigeria, you must first be a Nigerian company and be licensed by the broadcasting commission.
“Therefore, any OTT or social media platform operating in Nigeria must do so legally. One, registered with Corporate Affairs Commission, licensed by National Broadcasting Commission and then adhere to the conditions stipulated in their licences. We have already advertised the notice to the companies concerned to apply for registration of licence.
“Many one of the commentators have said suspending the operation of Twitter is like stifling freedom of expression. And I said no. Twitter is just one of the many platforms through which Nigerians can express themselves. There is Facebook, there is Instagram, there’s WhatsApp. There’s Google Hangout and others. They have not been suspended.
“And in any case, as I have said in several fora, it is because we have a country called Nigeria that we can start talking about free speech. And of course, there has to be a country before people can able to transact their businesses using social media platforms.”
Citing the fact-checking done by online newspapers, the minister accused Dorsey of funding the #EndSARS protest.
He said: “So, whether he donated money himself or helped to raise money, the Twitter owner is one of those who helped to fund the #EndSARS protests that were later hijacked leading to loss of lives and massive destruction of property.
“Like I said last Wednesday, you can see from the fact-checking, the role of Jack Dorsey is suspect. His interest in Nigeria is inimical to our growth.
“Our decision to suspend Twitter has been lauded by some, it has been decried by some. But we want to make it clear that what is important to us is the sovereignty of Nigeria.
“And until when Twitter responds and the cardinal thing is that Twitter must be registered in Nigeria. Twitter must be licensed in Nigeria and Twitter must stop using its platform for activities that are inimical to the growth of Nigeria and its corporate existence.”
Source: https://theventrepublic.com/2021/06/10/fg-facebook-whatsapp-instagram-must-be-registered-to-operate-in-nigeria/

The six Premier League clubs who were involved in the European Super League (ESL) have been fined a combined total of £22million.
Manchester United, Liverpool, Chelsea, Manchester City, Tottenham and Arsenal wanted to form a breakaway league
A further fine of £25million each and a 30-point deduction will be applied should they attempt a similar breakaway project again.
Meanwhile, UEFA has temporarily suspended disciplinary proceedings against Juventus, Barcelona and Real Madrid who are yet to renounce the ESL.
They are the only three clubs among the original 12 that signed up for the rebel competition that are yet to accept any punishment, with European football’s governing body opening disciplinary proceedings against them in May.
The FA and Premier League are the latest to determine a punishment, although the £22m was described a “a gesture of goodwill” from clubs.
In a joint statement the league and the national governing body confirmed the money “will go towards the good of the game”, which includes “new investment in support for fans” and will help fund grassroots and community projects.
“The six clubs involved in proposals to form a European Super League have on Wednesday acknowledged once again that their actions were a mistake, and have reconfirmed their commitment to the Premier League and the future of the English game,” the two bodies said in a statement.
“They have wholeheartedly apologised to their fans, fellow clubs, the Premier League and the FA.
“The Premier League and the FA have worked closely together throughout this process and this agreement brings both investigations into the matter to a conclusion.”
Source: https://theventrepublic.com/2021/06/10/premier-league-slams-fine-on-six-breakaway-esl-clubs-22m/

The Duke of Sussex, Prince Harry has insisted that he and his wife Mergan Markle told Queen Elizabeth that they wanted to name their recently born daughter after her nickname ‘Lilibet.’
In a sensational war of words with the Palace, Prince Harry blasted a Palace source who claimed he and Meghan "never asked" Her Majesty about using her childhood nickname.

After the name of Harry and Meghan's daughter was announced, it was said that Harry had spoken to his grandmother prior to naming their daughter and told her of plans to name her Lilibet.

A Palace source told the BBC this was not the case - and the Queen was "never asked" about its use.

Responding to the Palace source, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's official spokesman said: "The Duke spoke with his family in advance of the announcement, in fact his grandmother was the first family member he called.

"During that conversation, he shared their hope of naming their daughter Lilibet in her honor.

"Had she not been supportive, they would not have used the name."
Some royal commentators have criticized the use of the Queen’s childhood nickname as rude opining that not even Prince Charles dare called her by that name.
Lilibet was the name given to Queen Elizabeth by her father King George VI when she couldn’t pronounce her name while still a toddler and the name has stuck ever since.
Source: https://theventrepublic.com/2021/06/09/prince-harry-blasts-palace-insists-he-took-permission-from-queen-elizabeth-to-use-her-nickname-for-his-daughter/

Popular Nollywood actress and philanthropist, Tonto Dikeh turns 36 today. The controversial mother of one wrote: "ON THIS DAY AN EXTRAORDINARY HUMAN WAS BORN FOR GREAT THINGS AND GREATNESS SHE BECAME."
She was previously married to popular businessman, Olakunle Churchill and the marriage hit the rocks shortly after with accusations of misrepresentation and financial impropriety leveled against him by her. In a widely viewed interview with popular OAP, Ifedayo Olarinde a.k.a Daddy Freeze, she alleged that he suffered from severe premature ejaculation and he was also unfaithful to her as well. Churchill has gone on to marry Nollywood actress, Rosy Meurer.
Tonto Dikeh lost her mother early in life and has been a strong willed and independent woman as a result of the tragedy.
The Vent Republic wishes her a wonderful celebration!
Source: https://theventrepublic.com/2021/06/09/tonto-dikeh-is-36-today/

The Senate on Tuesday observed a minute silence in honour of the late Founder of the Synagogue Church of All Nations, Prophet Temitope Joshua, who died on Saturday, June 5 at the age of 57.
The Deputy Leader of the Senate, Professor Ajayi Boroffice, who is also the Senator representing Ondo North Senatorial District, drew the attention of his colleagues to the death of the late prophet.
Joshua, who hailed from Arigidi Akoko, would have celebrated his 58th birthday on June 12 which is the nation’s democracy day.
Senate President, Ahmad Lawan, prayed for the repose of the soul of the late prophet and for God to grant his family the fortitude to bear the loss.
More details later ……..
Source: https://theventrepublic.com/2021/06/08/breaking-senate-observes-one-minute-silence-to-honour-tb-joshua/

PREAMBLE
In the last 2 articles, we have discussed quite a bit about Aerobic and Anaerobic exercises-about the nature and benefits of each of the exercise type. Both are beneficial and each should be incorporated into the regular routine; they both have their place in a well-rounded fitness routine. However, If your primary concern is to shed excess fat, then you need to do more of the anaerobic exercises.
CAUTIONARY MEASURES
Moderation is an important virtue to maintain, when engaging in these exercises as beginners; Generally, it is prudent to begin with aerobic exercises such as walking, jogging and strength training two to three times a week.
As you build up endurance and strength, you can add in anaerobic exercises such as weight lifting or pushups. These exercises help you gain muscle, burn fat and increase your exercise stamina.
A medical doctor’s approval has to be sought if you have been inactive for a long time or living with a chronic condition, before commencing a program of aerobic exercises. Is important to start slowly and work up gradually to reduce the risk of an injury. For example, start by walking for 5 minutes at a time and add 5 minutes each time until you can walk up to a 30 minutes brisk walk.
Since Anaerobic exercises can be hard on the body, it is not typically recommended for fitness beginners. For workouts like High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) and weight training, a Fitness professional can demonstrate the correct exercise techniques, which is important for preventing an injury.
THE ROLE OF PHYSICAL EXERCISES ON MENTAL AND SPIRITUAL HEALTH.
There is growing scientific evidence that exercise enhances mood, reduces anxiety and improves overall well being. Two common mental problems are Anxiety and Depression.
ANXIETY
Regular aerobic exercise has been shown to decrease the amount of anxiety a person typically experiences in daily life. Most likely, low to moderate level intensity exercise is best for overall anxiety reduction, while an exercise intensity level that is too high may be of little or no benefit.
DEPRESSION
Exercise is also considered to be a good way to help a person get out of a depressed state. Many people feel tired , unmotivated, sluggish and lethargic when they are experiencing a depressed mood. Research shows that exercise helps go against these effects. Regular exercise seems to be effective in reducing the likelihood of a relapse in depressive symptoms for people who have had a depressive episode. Research indicates that mild to moderate intensity exercise may be more effective in reducing depressive symptoms than more intense exercise. Exercise has been shown to have anti-depressant effects for those diagnosed with mild to moderate clinical depression but may not affect the occasional low moods of non- depressed people.
EXERCISE ABUSE
Although exercise can have helpful effects related to mood, anxiety and overall fitness level, it can also lead to problems when performed in excess. Over-exercise can lead to health, relational and even financial problems.
Exercise abuse used to be known by the following names- Exercise Addiction, Exercise Dependency Syndrome and Activity Anorexia.
Symptoms of Exercise Abuse are as follows:
 Excessive reliance on exercise, usually daily, as the primary or only means of coping with emotions, anxiety and self-esteem. It often leads to a state in which the person is continually increasing the amount of exercise they perform; this may result in neglect or relegating to the background, other important activities and responsibilities e. g. work, family, school, and/or social obligations.
 Exercising even while sick or injured: The Exercise abuser often exercises at high intensity level and consequently at high risk for injury. Despite being injured, such people often refuse to stop exercising long enough to let the injuries heal. Exercising while injured can lead to more serious injuries and exercising which can lead to delayed recovery.
 Experience of Withdrawal symptoms: When an Exercise abuser stops exercising ,usually due to circumstances beyond control like very serious injury, commonly reported symptoms, similar to substance abuse have been reported: These are Altered sleep patterns, Difficulty in concentrating, mood swings, Physical symptoms e.g. Muscle stiffness and soreness; Other symptoms are Distorted self-image(e.g. thinking one looks too fat or too skinny) . Symptoms like this can have a rapid onset, usually within a few days.
Despite the many benefits of Exercise for people experiencing difficulties with mood and anxiety, it should only be used as a complement to therapy for mood and anxiety; relying solely on exercise as a means of coping is not recommended. A Mental Health Professional should be consulted if experiencing significant depressive or anxiety symptoms.
Challenges such as Exercise Abuse occur when exercise is perceived or taken up as an END (a“ Do or Die ‘”Affair) rather than as a MEANS to physical wellbeing. Such wrong attitudes can leads to obsessions and other anomalies , which can lead to Exercise Abuse. The right mental and spiritual attitude to Exercising is to regard exercising as a means to Wellness and not as an end in itself.This will engender Patience with oneself, Healthy love of self, Appreciation of one’s efforts and other healthy spiritual attitudes.
THE GOAL OF PHYSICAL EXERCISES
Physical exercises such as Aerobic and Anaerobic exercises contribute tremendously to that active process of being aware and making choices that leads towards an outcome of optimal Health and Well being called WELLNESS.
Wellness is not a passive or static state, but rather, an “active pursuit” that is associated with Intentions, Choices and Actions, as we work towards an optimal state of health and wellbeing: In addition, wellness is linked to Holistic Health-that is, it extends beyond physical health and incorporates many different dimensions that should work in harmony.
Physical wellness increases physical fitness: By being physically fit, a person will have enhanced ability to prevent illness and disease. Exercise stimulates a healthy mind and body. A sedentary lifestyle can be avoided by increasing physical activity in everyday life such as walking, cycling and other aerobic exercises as well as anaerobic exercises. Other aspects of physical wellness involves having good nutrition i. e. eating a balanced diet, drinking sufficient water and getting adequate sleep.
On one end, patients with poor health are supposed to make proper arrangements to get medical care to treat the illness; on the other end, people can focus proactively on prevention and thus maximize their activity. They adopt lifestyles that improve health, prevent disease and enhance their quality of life and a sense of well being. Wellness is proactive, preventive and driven by self-responsibility for Healthy living.
Caroline Ademiluyi is a Lagos based Pharmacist.
Source: https://theventrepublic.com/2021/06/07/doing-anaerobic-exercises-caroline-ademiluyi/

Gbenga Awoyale, the President-General of Orisun Igbomina, a socio-cultural association for Igbomina people, has cautioned supporters of the Kwara State chapter of the ruling All Progressives Congress, to close ranks to prevent a return of the Bukola Saraki-led era in the State.
Awoyale said in a statement in Ilorin, on Sunday.
The statement read in part: ‘A key fact about our political party system is that everything centres on votes. If voters do not show up to vote for our candidates on Election Day what becomes of us? And it is only when there is party unity that we can talk about necessary things that should be done to outrun the opposition.
“We tried for years before eventually ousting Saraki, if we are busy fighting each other he may return whilst we allow ourselves to get distracted.’
Bukola Saraki got his first political appointment as the Special Adviser on Budget to the former President Olusegun Obasanjo in 2000. He later became the Governor of Kwara State in 2003 and was re-elected for a second term in 2007. He later got elected as the Senator representing Kwara Central in 2011 and became the Senate President in 2015. He contested for the PDP Presidential primaries of 2019 and lost to Atiku Abubakar. An attempt to return to the Senate was prevented as he was defeated in the ‘Otoge’ movement that swept the PDP away from the state.
His next political moves still remain unknown to pundits.

Source: https://theventrepublic.com/2021/06/07/saraki-may-bounce-back-in-kwara-awoyale/

The sudden appearance of the campaign posters bearing the picture of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and that of an erstwhile governor of Central Bank of Nigeria, Charles Soludo, is currently generating controversy among members of the All Progressive Grand Alliance.

Soludo, is the favoured choice of the APGA leadership as candidate of the party for the Anambra Governorship election scheduled for November this year.

Our correspondent observed on Sunday that the posters titled, “The Great Alliance: PDP & APGA. Atiku /Soludo as President and Vice President 2023, were conspicuously displayed along the favored Wuse area and the Airport Road in Abuja, the nation’s capital.

The posters which appeared in two different designs with both Atiku and Soludo, dressed in corporate and traditional attires, claim that only the alliance could rescue Nigeria from the brink of collapse.

A member of the APGA, Ben Okafor, who introduced himself as an APGA ambassador, said, “I pray this is not true otherwise, such alliance would obviously send APGA to extinction, a move to send APGA into extinction.

President of APGA Ambassador’s, Okeke Kenneth, said, “Soludo should have joined PDP and contested for the Governorship of Anambra if he thinks he is popular. Why use APGA popularity in Anambra State to go and join PDP Presidential ticket?

When contacted, Media Adviser to former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, Mr. Paul Ibe said, “Soludo is of APGA, Atiku is of PDP. It doesn’t add up. We don’t where this is coming from.

“Wherever it is coming from it is surely for mischief. This is not a preoccupation of Atiku now. Atiku like all men/women of goodwill is preoccupied with helping to provide solutions to the nagging issues of insecurity ravaging the country and economic malaise marked by joblessness and poverty. Those are his preoccupation.”

https://www.google.com/amp/s/punchng.com/relationship-flavour-platonic-chizzy-alichi/%3famp

Some gunmen have invaded Iganga town in Ibadan North Local Government Area of Oyo State, causing heavy damages in the town, The Vent Republic gathered.
The Vent Republic learnt that the gunmen who were suspected to be Fulani herdsmen invaded the town around 11.pm on Saturday and left the town around 3.am on Sunday.
A Daily Post correspondent gathered that during the invasion, several residents of the town were killed.
Sources within the town told DAILY POST Sunday morning have maintained that the number of lives lost during the invasion have not been ascertained.
The residents claimed that it was Fulani herdsmen that invaded the town, though it has not been confirmed if it was Fulani herdsmen that invaded the town as claimed by the residents.
Oladiran Oladokun, Convener of Igangan Development Advocate (IDA), confirmed the attack to DAILY POST on Sunday.
Oladokun who confirmed the killing of many residents during the attack, however, said that the number of casualties have not been confirmed.
He alleged that the invasion was due to the banishment of the Seriki Fulani in the town.
He added that Fulani herdsmen had been threatening to attack the town since the Seriki Fulani was banished from the town.
“Are you calling in respect of Iganga incident? That is how we saw it.
“It was the Fulani herdsmen that have been threatening to come and attack Iganga because of the Seriki Saliu that we sent away from the town.
“So, we have been receiving threats and they carried out their threat midnight.
“They operated between 11.pm on Saturday till around 3.am today (Sunday).
“We can’t count casualties now because it was not safe for anybody to come out now.
“So, it was during daybreak that some people are coming out from bushes where they ran to. We are still counting.”
Source: https://theventrepublic.com/2021/06/06/breaking-many-dead-as-gunmen-invade-community/

The Federal Government has suspended indefinitely, the operations of microblogging and social networking service, Twitter, in Nigeria.
This was announced on Friday by the Minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed, according to a statement by his Special Assistant on Media, Segun Adeyemi.
The Vent Republic had earlier reported that Twitter deleted a post by the Nigerian President, Major General Muhammadu Buhari (retd.), on Tuesday.
The President had condemned the attacks on police stations, prisons and offices of the Independent National Electoral Commission, especially in the South-East, warning that those supporting insurrection and violence in the country would be shocked.
Buhari had tweeted, “Many of those misbehaving today are too young to be aware of the destruction and loss of lives that occurred during the Nigerian Civil War. Those of us in the fields for 30 months, who went through the war, will treat them in the language they understand.”
The President’s tweet angered some persons who felt he was insensitive to have made an analogy of the civil war. His critics subsequently reported the tweet to Twitter and the microblogging site later deleted the post with a comment, “This Tweet violated the Twitter Rules”.
Mohammed subsequently criticized Twitter for supporting insurrection in Nigeria since last October during the #EndSARS protests which ended in the destruction of lives and properties all over the country.
Reacting consequently on Friday in a statement, the minister said the Buhari government has suspended the activities of Twitter in the country.
The statement titled, ‘FG Suspends Twitter’s Operations in Nigeria’, read, “The Federal Government has suspended, indefinitely, the operations of
the microblogging and social networking service, Twitter, in Nigeria.
“The Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, announced the suspension in a statement issued in Abuja on Friday,
citing the persistent use of the platform for activities that are capable of undermining Nigeria’s corporate existence.
“The Minister said the Federal Government has also directed the National Broadcasting Commission to immediately commence the
process of licensing all OTT and social media operations in Nigeria.”

Source: https://theventrepublic.com/2021/06/04/breaking-fg-suspends-twitter-operations-in-nigeria/

Youth Corpers in Oyo State were highly elated when Governor Seyi Makinde increased their monthly allowance from 5000 naira to 15000 naira.
The Governor announced this when he visited their orientation camp on Thursday, June 3.
More details later ……
Source: https://theventrepublic.com/2021/06/04/breaking-governor-makinde-increases-youth-corpers-allowance-from-5000-naira-to-15000-naira-monthly/

PREAMBLE
Last week, we discussed Aerobic Exercises, which are endurance –type exercises in which a person’s muscles move in a rhythmic and coordinated manner for a sustained period. We discussed that Aerobic Exercises, which require oxygen to generate energy, are those that require pumping of oxygenated blood by the heart to deliver oxygen to working muscles; Aerobic exercises stimulate the heart rate and breathing rate to increase in a way that can be sustained for the exercise session. Examples of Aerobic exercises include walking, running, jogging, swimming, dancing etc. Aerobic Exercises improve fitness and are highly beneficial for physical and emotional health. Aerobic exercises can help prevent or reduce the chance of developing some cancers, diabetes, depression, cardiovascular disease and osteoporosis.
In the course of doing Aerobic Exercises, you breathe hard, the heart is thumping and blood courses through the vessels to deliver oxygen to the muscles to provide energy to keep moving and the activity is sustained for much longer than a few minutes. Aerobic exercises require oxygen to generate the energy needed for prolonged exercise (i.e. Aerobic energy expenditure).
It is recommended generally that adults do a daily minimum of 30 minutes of moderate intensity aerobic exercise, spread through the day e.g. 10 minutes each time, morning, afternoon and evening. ‘Moderate intensity” is equivalent to feeling warm and slightly out of breath.
ANAEROBIC EXERCISES
Anaerobic exercises, which is the topic for this week, are those that involve short, intense bursts of physical activity.
Unlike Aerobic Exercises which use oxygen to break down glucose for energy, Anaerobic Exercises do not involve an increase in the absorption and transportation of oxygen, but break down glucose stores for energy without using oxygen. Generally, these activities are of short length with high intensity or higher power version of exercise. Exercises and movements that require short bursts of intense energy a are examples of Anaerobic exercises, which are more intense but shorter in duration than Aerobic exercises.
The idea is that a lot of energy is released within a small period of time and the oxygen demand surpasses the oxygen supply. In Aerobic exercise, there is use of a continuous supply of oxygen, which burns fats and carbohydrates and produces energy which sustains the current level of activity, without needing energy from another source. Anaerobic Exercise, on the other hand, prompts the body to demand more energy than the Aerobic system can produce.
To produce more energy, the body uses it’s Anaerobic system , which relies on energy sources stored in the muscles. Anaerobic exercises push your body and lungs to rely on energy source stored in the muscle.
• THE SCIENCE BEHIND ANAEROBIC EXERCISES
Oxygen is required for the body to be able to utilize fat and glucose for energy. Since Aerobic exercise uses oxygen to produce energy, it can use both fats and glucose for energy production.
Anaerobic exercises break down glucose without using oxygen. Glucose is available in the muscles and can be used when the Aerobic system is maxed out or reaches the greatest level, for a short period of time.
When you begin to exercise vigorously, there is a temporary shortage of oxygen getting delivered to your working muscles to produce the required energy: Anaerobic exercise consequently gets energy through using glucose through a process called Glycolysis, which is a breakdown of glucose to Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP), which is the primary source of energy for cellular reactions. Glycolysis thus produces energy quickly; it produces bursts of energy. This process of glycolysis also produces Lactic Acid at an increased rate, causing tiredness to the muscles.
By engaging in anaerobic exercises regularly, the body will be able to tolerate and eliminate Lactic Acid more effectively, which means that one will get tired less quickly, eventually.
Anaerobic energy expenditure is difficult to accurately quantify; some methods estimate the Anaerobic component of an exercise by determining the maximum accumulated oxygen deficit or measuring the Lactic Acid formation in muscle mass.
• TYPES OF ANAEROBIC EXERCISES
Examples of Anaerobic exercises include Sprinting, High Intensity Interval Training, Strength Training like Weight lifting; Body weight activities such as Pushups and Pull ups.
BENEFITS OF ANAEROBIC EXERCISES
1-Increase of Bone Strength and Density
Anaerobic exercises are Resistance training and can increase Bone density and strength, which can decrease the risk of Osteoporosis.
2.-Promotes weight maintenance
Since anaerobic exercise demands more energy from the body within a shorter time frame, it is beneficial for loss of body fat; it can also help gain or maintain muscle mass.
3.-Increase Power
It can lead to Power increase.
4.-Boosts Metabolism
Anaerobic exercises help boost metabolism as it builds and maintains lean muscle. The more lean muscle you have, the more calories you will burn during your next sweat session. High Intensity exercise is also thought to increase your post workout calorie burn.
5.- Increases Lactic Acid threshold
By regularly training above your Anaerobic threshold, the body can increase its ability to handle lactic acid, which increases your lactic acid threshold, or the point at which you experience fatigue. That means you will be able to work out harder for longer.
6.-Fights Depression
Studies show that anaerobic exercise like strength training can boost your mood and even fight depression.
7.-Reduces risk of disease
Gains in strength and bone density attained by high-intensity anaerobic training like body weight squats and push ups can reduce your risk for diabetes and heart disease.
8.-Protects Joints
By building your muscle strength and muscle mass, your joints will be better protected, meaning that you will have greater protection against injury.
9.-Boosts Energy
Consistent anaerobic exercises increases your body’s capacity to store Glycogen (what your body uses as fuel or energy), giving you more energy for your next bout of intense physical activity. This can improve your athletic ability.
DIFFERENCES BETWEEN AEROBIC EXERCISES AND ANAEROBIC EXERCISES
The main differences between aerobic exercises and anaerobic exercises are:
• How the body uses stored energy.
• The intensity of the exercise
• The length of time that the person is able to maintain the exercise
Aerobic exercises tend to be rhythmic, gentle and of longer duration. Anaerobic exercises tend to involve short bursts of high intensity activity.
SIMILARITIES BETWEEN AEROBIC AND ANAEROBIC EXERCISES
Bothe aerobic and anaerobic exercises are beneficial for the cardiovascular system. Both exercise types help by:
• Strengthening the heart muscle
• Boosting circulation
• Increasing metabolism
• Aiding weight management
Either type of exercise help lower a person’s risk of the following health conditions:
• Heart disease
• Type 2 diabetes
• Some cancers
• Dementia
• Anxiety
• Depression
CONCLUSION
Either type of exercise is beneficial for both Physical and Mental health. People with heart conditions or other underlying health issues should talk to a doctor before starting any workout routine or adding any new exercise to an existing routine. A doctor may provide recommendations or restrictions to reduce the risk of overexertion, injury and other health complications.
Caroline Ademiluyi is a Lagos based pharmacist
Source: https://theventrepublic.com/2021/06/03/why-you-must-always-exercise-caroline-ademiluyi/

Brouhaha broke out between the Federal Government of Nigeria and Twitter over a deleted tweet which Twitter took down for violating its rules.
The government lashed out at Twitter and accused it of playing double standards in matters concerning domestic issues.
It described the company’s “role in Nigeria as suspect”.
In a series of tweets via his verified Twitter handle, @MBuhari, the President tweeted “many of those misbehaving today are too young to be aware of the destruction and loss of lives that occurred during the Nigerian Civil War.
“Those of us in the fields for 30 months, who went through the war, will treat them in the language they understand.”
But, Twitter removed the tweet, stating, “this Tweet violated the Twitter Rules”.
The government’s reaction to the deletion of the President’s tweets reminiscing Nigerians’ experiences during the civil war and warning to armed secessionists in the Southeast was through Information, Culture and Tourism Minister Lai Mohammed
He said Twitter had not been fair to Nigeria, stating that the social media giant had conveniently ignored inciting tweets by the leader of Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu and others.
The minister recalled that Twitter displayed similar biases during the #EndSARS protests when government and private properties were looted and razed. Mohammed said the same company has now found the President’s tweets offensive.
Mohammed said: “Twitter may have its own rules. It’s not the universal rule. If Mr. President, anywhere in the world feels very bad and concern about a situation, he is free to express such views. Now, we should stop comparing apples with oranges. If an organisation is proscribed, it is different from any other, which is not proscribed.
“Two, any organisation that gives directives to its members, to attack police stations, to kill policemen, to attack correctional centres, to kill warders, and you are now saying that Mr. President does not have the right to express his dismay and anger about that? We are the ones guilty of double standards.
“I don’t see anywhere in the world where an organisation, a person will stay somewhere outside Nigeria, and will direct his members to attack the symbols of authority, the police, the military, especially when that organisation has been proscribed. By whatever name, you can’t justify giving orders to kill policemen or to kill anybody you do not agree with.
“The mission of Twitter in Nigeria is very suspect. Has Twitter deleted the violent tweets that Nnamdi Kanu has been sending? Has it?
“The same Twitter during the #EndSARS protests that was funding #EndSARS protesters, it was the first to close the account of former president of US, Trump. And you see, when people were burning police stations and killing policemen in Nigeria during #EndSARS. For Twitter, it was about the right to protest. But when a similar thing happened on the Capitol (US Congress), it became insurrection.
“You see, we are not going to be fooled by anybody. We have a country to rule and we will do so to the best of our ability. Twitter’s mission in Nigeria citing those two examples is very suspect. What is their agenda?
“How does Mr. President speech… that anybody who is destroying infrastructure, who is destroying police offices, who is destroying INEC offices should be ready for the consequences…Is that inciting violence?”
Asked why Sheik Gumi, whose comment that has been justifying Boko Haram actions has not been picked, the minister replied: “You are again mixing things. If an organisation is proscribed ab initio, that organisation does not exist in that country. There are many Nigerians, for instance, who have been inciting people against the government.
“Who appointed Gumi middleman between government and Boko Haram? Listen, for me, unless you come and tell me this is what Gumi said that is inciting that you are comparing to Kanu… anyway what we’re discussing is different. We’re discussing Twitter.
“If you want to ask any question about Gumi or any other person, go ahead but please, be objective.
“There’s so many people who have been spewing hate against Mr. President, against this government. So, if you want to comment, be fair, don’t take a position which is not objective.
“If we were to pick up everybody today who had been abusing this administration, the detention centres will be filled up and you will be the first person also to talk about lack of tolerance, lack of rule of law.
“But I’m saying that you cannot compare anybody with Kanu who boldly said, go and kill policemen.
“I think sometimes …policemen are our brothers, they are our uncles, they are our children. We kill them, their wives become widows and their children become orphans.
“And what is the offence of these policemen? Because they are working to keep the country one! What about soldiers that are putting down their lives so that me and you can sleep?
“It is not acceptable anywhere in the world for anybody, anywhere, to stay in the comfort of wherever he is and now give directives to go and kill soldiers, go and kill policemen”, he said.
Source: https://theventrepublic.com/2021/06/03/buharis-deleted-tweet-sparks-brouhaha-between-fg-and-twitter/

The Governing Council of the University of Lagos, Akoka, has fired Dr Boniface Igbeneghu of the Department of European Languages and Integration Studies and Dr Samuel Oladipo of the Department of Economics.
An official statement by the school said the governing approved the dismissal of both lecturers over the allegations of sexual harassment levelled against them in a British Broadcasting Corporation World Service Investigative Series, Africa Eye.
The statement was signed by the Registrar, UNILAG, Mr Azeez Oladejo.
It reads: “The Governing Council of the University of Lagos, at its meeting on Monday, May 31, 2021, approved the immediate dismissal of Dr Boniface Igbeneghu of the Department of European Languages and Integration Studies, Faculty of Arts and Dr Samuel Omoniyi Oladipo of the Department of Economics, Faculty of Social Sciences, from the services of the University.
“Council, at its meeting, considered the report and findings of the Senate Committee set up to investigate the allegations of sexual harassment levelled against them in a British Broadcasting Corporation World Service Investigative Series titled, AFRICA EYE, (which centred on sexual harassment in tertiary institutions).
“The Council consequently decided and approved that both Dr Boniface Igbeneghu and Dr Samuel Omoniyi Oladipo be dismissed from the services of the university for misconduct, with effect from Monday, May 31, 2021 in line with section 18 of the University of Lagos Act 1967.
“Council further directed that the management should review the sexual harassment policy as may be necessary and institute effective strategies to prevent future occurrence.”
Source: https://theventrepublic.com/2021/06/03/unilag-sacks-lecturers-for-sexual-scandal/

A lady on facebook identified as Anastacia Michael has taken to her page to celebrate Fewa Otedola, the son of Billionaire, Femi Otedola.
In her post, she expressed her feeling for the 21-year-old and she declared that she is willing to marry him, regardless of him being autistic.
She wrote:
I have grown to love Fewa Otedola so much. His cuteness, innocence, simplicity, infact everything about this dude drives me crazy. I will love to spend the rest of my life with Fewaluv regardless his Autism condition.whenever I see him I don’t see his condition but the genuine love I have for him, and I AM WILLING TO MARRY FEWA OTEDOLA , He has stolen my heart..
Happy birthday hearty my heart beats only for you.”
Fewa is the only son of billionaire businessman Femi Otedola. It will be recalled that his elder sister, Florence Ifeoluwa Otedola a.k.a DJ Cuppy recently openly celebrated him on social media.
His other sister, Temi Otedola first made his condition public a few years ago which set the internet on fire as she wanted to create awareness of the challenge and give hope to families who have children battling it.
Source: https://theventrepublic.com/2021/06/03/i-am-willing-to-marry-him-hes-stolen-my-heart-lady-to-autistic-love-interest/

The Plateau State Police Command said it has arrested some suspected killers of AIG Christopher Dega (retd.), a Senior Special Assistant to Benue State Governor Samuel Ortom on Security.
The Vent Republic learnt that the governor’s aide was killed in Jos, the Plateau State capital.
The Police Public Relations Officer in Plateau, Ubah Ogaba, confirmed the incident in a statement on Wednesday.
The statement read: “The Plateau State Police Command on a sad note received an ugly report of the death of AIG Christopher Dega (Rtd).
“On 31/05/2021 at about 2030hrs, AIG Christopher Dega (Rtd) was shot dead by three yet to be identified gunmen in an isolated restaurant at Bukuru, Jos.
“From the investigation so far, it appeared that he was trailed and shot.
“He arrived at Jos from Makurdi on the same date at about 1930hrs.
“Some suspects have been arrested. Meanwhile, the investigation is ongoing.”
Source: https://theventrepublic.com/2021/06/02/breaking-suspected-murderers-of-ortoms-aide-arrested-police/

A 20-year-old Ijaw student from Rivers State, Miss Alaba Ann Tam Danagogo, is the 2021 overall best scholar at the Syracuse University in New York, the United States of America (U.S.A).
Graduating with distinctions in Biology Major and Minor in English and Textual Studies, among other academic accomplishments, Alaba was also awarded the prestigious 1870 scholarship by the university for another four-year Medical Studies.
The university’s Dean of the School of Arts and Science, Prof. Karin Ruhlandt, said among Alaba’s academic accomplishments are the Dean’s List Honors, Distinction in Biology and the highest recognised 1870 Syracuse University scholarship offered by the Office of Admission of the university.
Alaba was Students’ Speaker (valedictorian) for 2021 and she was selected as a Senior Class Marshall of the university, recognised as a Distinguished Syracuse University Scholar, having graduated summa cum laude with a 3.97 CGPA in a four-point system.
Ruhlandt said: “Alaba’s study in Biology also includes independent research related to the development of the brain’s neocotext which will eventually help scientists understand certain new developmental disorders.
“In addition to her academics, Alaba has volunteered at hospitals in Syracuse. She was also a student tutor and Event Coordinator for the Food Recovery Network and international student mentor at the Connection Programme in the Centre of International Services and serves as Vice-President of the Aikido Sports Club in Syracuse.”
Receiving her valedictory award, Alaba said: “The journey was tough but I made the promise to myself to do my best and make my time at Syracuse University special for me.
“I hope to gain the necessary scientific skills to care for those in need and also bring my thoughts to bear through literature and creative writing.”
Source: https://theventrepublic.com/2021/06/02/nigerian-girl-is-us-universitys-overall-best-student/

A young lady who went missing on Saturday was on Tuesday found stone sdead in her room in Mosogar, in the Ethiope West Local Government Area of Delta State, with vital parts of her body missing.
Sources said the deceased whose identity could not be ascertained as of the time of filing this report, brought a man home on Saturday night, when she was last seen by her neighbours.
A neighbour, who preferred to remain anonymous said: “The man was later seen leaving that night; but since then, we did not see her only to discover this morning (Tuesday) that she was dead, with her vital organs missing.”
More details later …….
Source: https://theventrepublic.com/2021/06/02/missing-lady-found-dead-in-room-some-of-body-parts-missing/

The Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike and his erstwhile Commissioner for Chieftaincy and Community Affairs, John Bazia traded words on a live TV programme which aired on Channels TV anchored by Seun Okinbaloye.
They traded words on Monday, May 31 on the defection of the former Commissioner from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressive Congress (APC).
Both Wike and Bazia featured on Politics Today, a current affairs programme on Channels Television, on Monday.
The former commissioner had not only left Wike’s cabinet, but also dumped the PDP for the APC.
The programme ended on a bizarre note when Bazia described the governor as a thug.
The ex-commissioner said: “The governor, Wike, I must tell you (that) all those who are with him, they know what they are going through. But you have been seeing him on TV and the way he has been behaving in Nigeria. Sometimes, you will be baffled if that is an enlightened and educated mind; the way he carries himself. He forgets that he holds the exalted position, the office of the governor. He behaves like a thug…”
The anchor, Seun Okinbaloye, however, interjected Bazia, saying his words were weighty.
Wike was visibly furious when the interviewer called him to react to the ex-commissioner.
He partly said: “You sit down there and somebody who said I appointed him had the temerity, the audacity to say I behave like a thug, and you are asking me that question to react to what somebody I appointed (as commissioner).
“However, let me tell you: look at him talking now. When he was commissioner, did he look that haggard? A thug appointed you commissioner; you never knew that he was a thug but he appointed you a commissioner. So, only when he removed you that you then know that he behaves like a thug. You did not resign, you were working with a thug all the while until when the thug did not bring you back as a commissioner (for a second term in 2019), you then realised that he behaves like a thug.
“Now, look at the kind of characters we have and these are the kinds of people that you want me to respond to: somebody who stole the ‘kola’ of traditional rulers and up till now, he has not gone to court to challenge our saying (allegation) that he stole ‘kola’ given to traditional rulers and clergymen.
“Why did he not resign when he was commissioner? When I won my second tenure, he was lobbying that I was going to bring him back, but when I appointed another commissioner, he knew that he would not come back.”

Source: https://theventrepublic.com/2021/06/01/wike-former-commissioner-in-war-of-words-on-tv-programme/

The police command of the Federal Capital Territory has denied claims made by the Publisher of Sahara Reporters and popular human rights activist that he was shot earlier today.
Reacting to his claim, the spokesperson for the command, Mariam Yusuf, in a statement released, said there was no record of any incident such as a shooting during the protest.

The statement titled ‘Police restores calm at the Unity Fountain’ reads

“The FCT Command wishes to debunk the viral message in some sections of the social media purporting that ‘Omoyele Sowore was shot by a female Assistant Commissioner of Police’ at the Unity Fountain.
Contrary to the speculation, police operatives professionally restored calm at the Unity Fountain following attempts by a group of protesters to incite a public disturbance.
The protesters, who went on the rampage, were resisted by police operatives in order to prevent them from causing a breakdown of the law and order. There is no record of such an incident as of the time of this release.
The command enjoins residents to remain calm and law-abiding while reaffirming its commitment towards the protection of lives and property within the FCT.”

The pictures of the gunshot wounds of Sowore had gone viral earlier today, May 31 which showed him being rushed to a hospital.

Sowore is yet to respond to this.

Source: https://theventrepublic.com/2021/05/31/police-denies-shooting-sowore/

Another office of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has been burnt in Imo State.
The INEC office at Okwudor in Njaba Local Government Area of the state was burnt down on Sunday morning, May 30, less than 24 hours after Atta police station, customary and high courts were burnt down in the same local council.
More details later …….
Source: https://theventrepublic.com/2021/05/31/breaking-inec-office-burnt-in-imo/

Artistes Simi and Adekunle Gold are proud parents today as their daughter and first child, Adejare turns one today, May 30.
Simi on her part wrote
''Blessed fruit of my womb. Drinker of my milk. Climber of my body. Sleep stopper. Scatterer of my things. Best dancer. Blessing bringer. Lil Miss I-have-a-mind-of-my-own. Overall best in eating paper. Cheerful Giver even when I don't want. Beauty Queen. My little butterfly. My Child. Omo mi. Ayanfe mi. Onife mi. Love of my life. I love you so much Adejare. So much. You're the best thing in all my life. You make me so proud of myself. I would do anything for you. Everything. For you. You will never doubt that no one in the world could possibly love you like I do. Sometimes I will do too much, but it will be because I love you too much.

As I write this, I'm watching you watch some baby show and Déjà - E CHOKE!!! Literally choking with love for you my girl. I wanna cry because Ayo mi, you make me so happy. I'm so blessed to know you and have you in my life. I'm so incredibly favored to experience your smiles and giggles and the noises you make to embarrass the whole family on the aeroplane. With that your two teeth. Even people that have 32 no reach my princess. I foh for you Deja.

I bless you with my heart, with my love, with my spirit. As your MOTHER I bless you in the way that only a mother can. I bless you truly, completely, unconditionally. You will never suffer. You will never lack any good thing. Favour will never leave you. Anyone that knows and encounters you, from near or afar will bless you. You are the light of the world my angel. Evil will not see you. God is for you - Nothing against you can prosper. I shield you with the angels of God. All your life, you will abide under the shadow of the Almighty. You will know and love God for yourself. I cover you with the LOVE God has intoxicated me with for you. Glory to God for the testimony of you. All in the name of Jesus Christ.

My baby is ONE. Oh My God. I'm so excited to see you Blossom and Grow. Your Nana has been an incredible mother to me, and by the grace of God, I will surpass that and be an even better mom to you. Your dad and I are so proud of you. He looks at you often and says to me "Baby, look what we made." And really, look what we made. Happy birthday baby.''

The proud dad, AdekunleGold, on his part, wrote:
''To the most beautiful one-year-old-little girl I have ever known,
You have graced our lives for a whole year now. You bring us so much joy and everyday I am grateful for you. I dunno how, but there’s no getting use to how perfect you are.
Happy Birthday Adejare.
Daddy Loves you so much Dej!''
Source: https://theventrepublic.com/2021/05/30/artistes-simi-and-adekunle-golds-daughter-adejare-turns-one-today/

There are strong rumours that former Big Brother Nigeria Housemate, Tobi Bakre is in a romantic relationship with Anu Oladosu.
Prior to flaunting her, he has been hinting to his followers of her existence in his insta stories while initially shrouding her identity in secrecy.
Some months ago, he shared a video of him kissing her cheek and taking her home to see his mother.
The former Big Brother Nigeria second runner up has now confirmed that they are an item after he recently took to his official IG page to share a loved-up photo with her. The lovely photo which has since garnered thousands of likes and admiration from celebrities and fans, came with the caption, “My favorite quarrel buddy, LOML too”.
Since leaving the Big Brother House, Tobi has been very active on social media where he posts words of wisdom for his fans and followers as well as flaunts his lifestyle to the admiration of the opposite sex who regard him as one of the sexiest men alive.
Source: https://theventrepublic.com/2021/05/29/bbnaijas-tobi-bakre-flaunts-new-girlfriend/

Nigerian Grammy Awards Winners Damini Ogulu a.k.a Burna Boy and Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun a.k.a Wizkid have been nominated for the 2021 BET Award Nominations. Both superstars got nominated in the Best International Act category.
Burna Boy won it in the last two years while Wizkid won it in 2012 when the category had divisions for Africa and the UK.
The show will also be available to watch on My5 and Sky On-Demand in the UK beginning June 29th.
See full list of nominees below;
ALBUM OF THE YEAR
AFTER HOURS - THE WEEKND
BLAME IT ON BABY - DABABY
GOOD NEWS - MEGAN THEE STALLION
HEAUX TALES - JAZMINE SULLIVAN
KING’S DISEASE - NAS
UNGODLY HOUR - CHLOE X HALLE
BEST COLLABORATION
CARDI B FT. MEGAN THEE STALLION - WAP
DABABY FT. RODDY RICCH - ROCKSTAR
DJ KHALED FT. DRAKE - POPSTAR
JACK HARLOW FT. DABABY, TORY LANEZ & LIL WAYNE - WHATS POPPIN (REMIX)
MEGAN THEE STALLION FT. DABABY - CRY BABY
POP SMOKE FT. LIL BABY & DABABY - FOR THE NIGHT
BEST FEMALE R&B / POP ARTIST
BEYONCÉ
H.E.R.
JAZMINE SULLIVAN
JHENÉ AIKO
SUMMER WALKER
SZA
BEST MALE R&B / POP ARTIST
6LACK
ANDERSON .PAAK
CHRIS BROWN
GIVEON
TANK
THE WEEKND
BEST NEW ARTIST
COI LERAY
FLO MILLI
GIVEON
JACK HARLOW
LATTO
POOH SHIESTY
BEST GROUP
21 SAVAGE & METRO BOOMIN
CHLOE X HALLE
CHRIS BROWN & YOUNG THUG
CITY GIRLS
MIGOS
SILK SONIC
BEST FEMALE HIP HOP ARTIST
CARDI B
COI LERAY
DOJA CAT
MEGAN THEE STALLION
LATTO
SAWEETIE
BEST MALE HIP HOP ARTIST
DABABY
DRAKE
J. COLE
JACK HARLOW
LIL BABY
POP SMOKE
DR. BOBBY JONES BEST GOSPEL/INSPIRATIONAL AWARD
BEBE WINANS - IN JESUS NAME
CECE WINANS - NEVER LOST
H.E.R. - HOLD US TOGETHER
KIRK FRANKLIN - STRONG GOD
MARVIN SAPP - THANK YOU FOR IT ALL
TAMELA MANN – TOUCH FROM YOU
BET HER AWARD
ALICIA KEYS FT. KHALID - SO DONE
BRANDY FT. CHANCE THE RAPPER - BABY MAMA
BRI STEVES - ANTI QUEEN
CHLOE X HALLE - BABY GIRL
CIARA FT. ESTER DEAN - ROOTED
SZA - GOOD DAYS
BEST INTERNATIONAL ACT
AYA NAKAMURA (FRANCE)
BURNA BOY (NIGERIA)
DIAMOND PLATNUMZ (TANZANIA)
EMICIDA (BRAZIL)
HEADIE ONE (UK)
WIZKID (NIGERIA)
YOUNG T & BUGSEY (UK)
YOUSSOUPHA (FRANCE)
VIEWER’S CHOICE AWARD
CARDI B FT. MEGAN THEE STALLION - WAP
CHRIS BROWN & YOUNG THUG - GO CRAZY
DABABY FT. RODDY RICCH - ROCKSTAR
DJ KHALED FT. DRAKE - POPSTAR
DRAKE FT. LIL DURK - LAUGH NOW CRY LATER
LIL BABY - THE BIGGER PICTURE
MEGAN THEE STALLION FT. BEYONCÉ - SAVAGE (REMIX)
SILK SONIC - LEAVE THE DOOR OPEN
VIDEO OF THE YEAR
CARDI B - UP
CARDI B FT. MEGAN THEE STALLION - WAP
CHLOE X HALLE - DO IT
CHRIS BROWN & YOUNG THUG - GO CRAZY
DRAKE FT. LIL DURK - LAUGH NOW CRY LATER
SILK SONIC - LEAVE THE DOOR OPEN
VIDEO DIRECTOR OF THE YEAR
BENNY BOOM
BRUNO MARS AND FLORENT DÉCHARD
COLE BENNETT
COLIN TILLEY
DAVE MEYERS
HYPE WILLIAMS
BEST MOVIE
COMING 2 AMERICA
JUDAS AND THE BLACK MESSIAH
MA RAINEY'S BLACK BOTTOM
ONE NIGHT IN MIAMI…
SOUL
THE UNITED STATES VS. BILLIE HOLIDAY
BEST ACTRESS
ANDRA DAY
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SPORTSMAN OF THE YEAR AWARD
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STEPHEN CURRY
Connie Orlando, EVP of Specials, Music Programming & Music Strategy at BET and Jesse Collins, CEO of Jesse Collins Entertainment serve as Executive Producers for the “BET Awards” 2021 broadcast special.
Voting for the “BET AWARDS” 2021 ‘Viewer’s Choice Award’ begins on June 7th.
Source: https://theventrepublic.com/2021/05/28/burna-boy-wizkid-receive-2021-bet-award-nominations/

The Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has said that the parents of convicted cultists will also be heavily sanctioned.
He made this known while addressing students on Thursday, May 27, during the Children’s Day celebration at the Police College, Ikeja.

The Governor, who was represented by his deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, said a new law had been signed to fight cultism and it includes punishment for parents of wards convicted of cultism.
Speaking on behalf of the Lagos State Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, said: "The new law against cultism prescribes punitive measures for parents of young people convicted of cultism. Parents should be vigilant and monitor their children."

He added: "We owe them a duty to ensure that their dreams and aspirations are realised through continuous training, guidance and mentoring."
Cultism is a plague that is fast spreading across the state with it infiltrating to some secondary schools especially the public ones. It is a menace that needs to be urgently curbed.
Lagosians will recall the atrocities committed by some cultists known as ‘Badoo’ who terrorized the entire Ikorodu axis.
Source: https://theventrepublic.com/2021/05/28/governor-babajide-sanwo-olu-advocates-punishment-for-convicted-cultists/

The Federal Government has said that the 4.2 million pounds loot linked to former Delta State Governor James Onanefe Ibori is yet to te returned to the state contrary to widely circulated reports that it had found its way back into the oil rich state.
A statement yesterday in Abuja by the Director of Information, Press and Public Relations in the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation, Henshaw Ogubike said: “The money is still being awaited, after which the issues around it will be resolved before further action is taken. For now, no money has been returned to Delta State”.
The statement explained that “the issue of the £4.2 million Ibori loot has not been properly resolved”.
Alluding to the Accountant General’s statement to the National Assembly on Tuesday that the alleged Ibori-linked loot had been returned to the state government, Ogubike said: “The AGF was only making general comments about recoveries relating to state governments.”
The Delta State Government on Wednesday, May 26 denied getting the funds.
In a statement yesterday in Asaba, the state capital, by the Chief Press Secretary to Governor, Mr. Olisa Ifeajika, the state government said it was in contact with the Federal Government, especially the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation, on the matter.
It expressed appreciation for the disposition of the Federal Government in releasing the funds to the state and assured that it would acknowledge receipt of the funds when it comes.
Source: https://theventrepublic.com/2021/05/27/fg-ibori-loot-not-yet-returned-to-delta/

The Senator representing Lagos Central, Senator Remi Tinubu has faced a public backlash for calling a woman a thug during a Constitutional Hearing Review on Wednesday, May 26.
According to The Cable, the lawmaker was involved in a shouting match with some Nigerians who attended the event at the Marriot Hotel in Lagos.
Tinubu is leading the Senate Committee on Review of the 1999 Constitution in the South-West.
It was reported that residents queued to register before they were allowed into the venue of the event.
However, when the state Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, came in through the back door, the front door was shut and the registration closed.
Those who were yet to register were said to have stayed in the queue, protesting their exclusion from the event.
Tinubu entered through the back door. A woman who was denied entry voiced out her anger which caught the attention of the Senator. Tinubu then called her out and dismissed her as a thug which led to tempers rising among those who heard her.
Some people demanded an apology from her but she was adamant and stuck to her guns in not apologizing to the distraught woman.
A video of the incident posted by The Cable and seen by our correspondent showed people criticizing the senator for being “rude” to the woman.
“Madam senator, don’t call her a thug. You begged us to vote for you…” a man at the scene said.
Reacting to the video on Twitter, one Roun @EverROUN, said, “Remi Tinubu, the highly cantankerous woman wishing to be Nigeria’s first lady called another woman a thug at the South-West Constitution Review hearing. So, very unfortunate! I just wish that Nigerians would not submit to the Govt of Satan.”
Another user, Marvyn @Dark_Whistler, wrote, “E good say all these dey happen. See the way she attempts to shut down anyone that opposes or challenges her.”
Source: https://theventrepublic.com/2021/05/27/remi-tinubu-faces-backlash-for-calling-a-woman-a-thug/

Popular media personality, Denrele Edun recalls an ugly incident when he turned 20. The controversial presenter who turns 40 on June 13 this year recalls how he was tormented on his birthday two decades ago.
He said that his mum was thoroughly insulted before they pounced on him verbally and physically.
He wrote:
This wonderful 20th Birthday of mine fell on an Environmental Sanitation day and as usual, we had to wake up at 5a.m to start cleaning out the entire Surroundings.
Since our Family House was located at the corner piece of Faneye Junction in Ebute Metta, it meant cleaning out the entire Stretch of “Gutter” that spiraled from the back of the house through to the next building.
And that job fell on the shoulders of the only Male in the house: ME!
In the process of cleaning out the Gutters, I heard raised voices emanating from the house.
“Witch! Bastard! Go back to your country, you poor foreigner with your children. Wretched Oyinbo!”.
I already knew my female Cousins were at war with my Mother but trusting my MFM Prayer Warrior of a Mum, she was one to never back down!
“Not on my Birthday. Please GOD! Can I even survive this day in peace and tranquility?”. I thought to myself.
Next thing, my cousins waltzed out of the house still screaming expletives at my Mum, one slapped my lil sister on the face cos she was in her way and then they came up to me.
5 girls in total.
They started taunting me especially insulting my Dad’s 1986 Honda Accord parked in the compound.
“Kalo Kalo Car! Poor dirty Indian! Wretched idiot! Oyiboyi (that was the name they used to call my Mum)!”
“You guys stop! Please! Abeg!”
As if on cue, they pulled up to me face to face in a semi circle. Head on, they started screaming outside the house,
“Stop what?”
Next thing, the five of them started flogging me. And I mean, with proper masquerade whips…. the ones with branches jutting out!
I was Angry. Frustrated. Pained.
And I felt like a Coward at that point because I couldn’t fight back. I just stood there willingly as two of them began to push me around.
When they had their fill, they all moved to the house saying they would extend the same treatment to my Mother and Sisters as we weren’t welcome in the Family House.
That moment I made up my mind;
NOBODY was ever gonna kill my HAPPINESS again!
I’m Still A Story waiting to be told!
Source: https://theventrepublic.com/2021/05/27/i-was-assaulted-by-my-female-cousins-on-my-20th-birthday-denrele-edun/

Charles Chukwuemeka Oputa a.k.a Charly Boy has disclosed to the public that he fell off his famous bike but only sustained minor injuries and was fine now.
He wrote in the caption:

See as I go fall on top my scooter Scatter my face.
Thank God am healing very wella.

All those wey SORRY for me God bless una.
All those wey yab me, dey call me Agbaya, biko allow me catch my cruise jare!!!

Charly Boy’s musical career began in the 1980’s but he came into national limelight in the early 1990’s with his show ‘Charly Boy Show’ which was an attack on both conservative societal values and on the government. The show got rested after a decade due to lack of sponsorship. Shortly afterwards, he teamed up with Tunde Obe to anchor ‘Zoom Time’ where he interviewed top personalities and celebrities on their personal lives. The show always ended with an imaginary ride on a bike.
He is a father of eight children from different women and numerous grandchildren. He has been married to his American wife Lady Diane for about four decades. One of his daughters based in the US recently came out as lesbian and he was called out by her for abandoning her when she needed him most. He is an advocate for gay rights equality.
Source: https://theventrepublic.com/2021/05/26/charly-boy-sustains-injuries-after-falling-off-his-bike/