Photographer Slams N120m Suit On Tuface,Wife

Justice Mohammed Idris of  the Federal High Court sitting in Lagos has fixed  October 16, 2013 for the commencement of trial in a N120 million copyright suit filed against popular music  star, Innocent Idibia, a.k.a. TuFace, his wife, Annie Idibia and their manager, Anthonio Anifite over  photographs allegedly taken at the recent traditional wedding of the musician and his wife in Akwa Ibom State.

Abuja based photographer, Emmanuel Okolo, who is the plaintiff in the suit alongside his studio, Papilonmexy  filed suit against the defendants.
He is asking for six reliefs, two of which include N100 million in general damages and N20million in exemplary damages.

At the resumed hearing of the case yesterday, neither TuFace nor his wife was represented in court. Anifite who is the second defendant was however represented by his counsel, J.O Uttute.
Meanwhile, a mild drama ensued when the judge openly admonished Uttute after the latter claimed that he had filed his defence when he had not done so.

The judge warned him not to come to this court again if he was not prepared for the case.  "You told me that you have filed your response, but looking through here, there is nothing to that effect. And you are even smiling. Do you think you are here to joke? Never come to this court again if you are not prepared. You don't even know when the case was filed and you are not prepared for it," said the judge.
Also,  the plaintiff's counsel,  Habeeb Oredola expressed worry over the defendants' inability to appear before the court  or  be represented by a counsel after they were served with the writs of summon.

In the writ of summon, Okolo and his studio claimed they were contracted by TuFace's wife through a third party, identified as Ms Chineze Anyaene to take photo shots at the traditional wedding held in Eket, Akwa Ibom state in March, 2013.
The plaintiff said, he was reluctant at the beginning since the offer was coming through a third party, but later accepted after he was convinced that the offer was actually with the blessing of the first defendant.

Annie Idibia was said to have later contacted the photographer after the wedding and demanded for the printing of 10 of the high resolution pictures taken.

Tonto Dikeh Facing 15-Year Prison Sentence Following Marijuana Pictures

You should learn to watch what you put up on social media, especially when you're a celebrity.

Tonto Dikeh might be in a lot of trouble after officials of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency stated that she could face up to 15 years in jail for taking pictures of banned substances and encouraging their consumption.

Dikeh had on Friday posted photographs of a wrap of hemp and grains of the weed formed into the letters, 'Happy birthday POKO.'

She also posted a photograph of herself and added the inscription, 'Mi smoke ganja mi smoke weed while my hatez smoke ma gossip.'

Her picture is a close-up of her face that seemed to depict her in a high state.

When Saturday PUNCH contacted NDLEA for comments, its spokesman, Mr. Mitchell Ofoyeju, said the matter would be investigated.

He said the matter had been referred to the appropriate department of the agency.

Ofoyeju said, "Our attention has been drawn to the post quite frankly and I can tell you that action will be taken on it. The law is clear and NDLEA has been very clear on the issue. No one is permitted to sell, use, cultivate or encourage the use of Indian hemp in Nigeria. The weed is one of the banned narcotics in the country.

"NDLEA Act Section 14 (b) states that any person who conspires with, aids, abets, counsels, attempts to commit or is an accessory to any act or offence referred to in this act shall be guilty of an offence under this act and liable on conviction to be sentenced to imprisonment for a term not less than 15 years and not exceeding 25 years.

"Investigation has not started as of now but definitely, a step has to be taken on the matter. Ignorance of the law is not an excuse; so, it is obvious that the actress stands the risk of 15 years jail term. The appropriate department is meeting on the issue for necessary action."

The NDLEA spokesman, however, declined to give any hint on particular steps the agency would take in its investigation, citing reasons bearing on ethics.

Dikeh's post has expectedly drawn mixed reactions from readers, with many of them voicing concern for the way she is living her life.

70 Persons Killed in Borno, Plateau States

No fewer than 70 persons including some leaders of Boko Haram  were killed in both Borno and Plateau States during separate skirmishes in the last three days in the country.

Gunmen suspected to be Boko Haram, also had last night reportedly killed a soldier and abducted three others during an attack on the military in Potiskum, Yobe state, a military source revealed.

Sources confirmed the incident to newsmen in Damaturu, the Yobe State capital, saying that the corpse of the deceased soldier had been brought from Potiskum and deposited at a hospital morgue in Damaturu town.

''The attack was a bad one because a soldier  was killed and the terrorists kidnapped three other soldiers to an unknown destination", he said.

''Some of our search teams are combing within and outside the neighbour hoods of Potiskum for the missing soldiers. A helicopter gun ship had been deployed from Maiduguri to join in the search teams yesterday morning.''

About 48 people were killed in violence in Langtang South Local Government Area of Plateau since crises started Thursday, while 22 other persons including some leaders of Boko Haram were killed in Borno during a gun duel between security agents and the Boko Haram insurgents. Special Task Force, STF, Spokesman in Jos Plateau State, Captain Salisu Mustapha, told newsmen in Jos, the capital yesterday that some invading Fulani herdsmen killed 28 persons in Magama, Bongong and Karkashi communities, while the STF killed 20 of them "in a gun duel that lasted several hours."

Also, in Borno, the sources close to the Military Joint Task Force, JTF, told Saturday Vanguard that "No fewer than 22 people suspected to be members of terrorists group have been killed in Mainok Village, Beneshiek Local Government Area of Borno state in an exchange of gun fire which ensued between the terrorists and men of the JTF. Also killed were two security personnel suspected to be policemen."

However, the STF's Mustapha said that many other assailants sustained gunshot wounds and were arrested by the STF, without giving the specific number of those said to have been arrested.

"Some motorcycles, weapons and ammunition were also recovered," he added.

He further said that the attackers were suspected to be Fulani herdsmen and that they withdrew toward Yamini, Yelwa-Shendam and Agikamai villages in Shendam Local Government Area after the attack.

He, however, said the situation had been brought under control as more troops had been deployed to secure the area.

Mustapha said "STF personnel are conducting a robust patrol to guard against further attacks on innocent persons." He advised the people to go about their normal businesses and warned that security men would deal with anyone caught making trouble in the area.

"Individuals or groups of persons that have made themselves the enemies of the people will be treated as such because we shall fish them out and deal with them," he warned.

Meanwhile, the Chairman of Langtang South Local Government, Mr Naanman Darko, said that more than 6,000 displaced persons were taking refuge at the local government headquarters in Mabudi.

"In fact, more people are still trooping into the secretariat following rumours that more attacks are underway," he said.

Darko said nine injured persons were being treated at Langtang South General Hospital.

"The local government has been making arrangements to provide relief materials to the displaced persons.

"We have also reached out to the State Emergency Management Agency and had been assured that assistance is already underway," he added.

In Borno, among those arrested were alleged four high profile Boko Haram members including one suspected to be very close to leader of the sect, Sheikh Abubakar Shekau. They were reportedly arrested yesterday by Vigilante Youths popularly known as 'Civilian JTF' in Maiduguri, the state capital.

Saturday Vanguard gathered from reliable sources that the terrorists invaded Mainok village  Wednesday in an attempt to launch attacks on one of the security posts in the area but were repelled by the superior fire power of the JTF."

The source said, the terrorists laid an ambush, in readiness for the attack before the exchange of gun shots began at about 6pm in the evening. It was learnt that, during the encounter, several members of the terrorist sect were killed, while two people suspected to be security operatives also lost their lives.

The source said that the arrest of the high profile members of the sect were carried out in different locations in Maiduguri metropolis even as three of them were arrested at Galtimari ward close to Giwa Barracks by the youths who later handed them over to the JTF unit along 21 Armoured Brigade road. Two other suspects were said to have been apprehended at Kawar-Maila in Shehuri ward, one of the strongholds of Boko Haram sect which had witnessed series of killings, bombing and destruction of houses in recent past.

The 'Civilian JTF' which had been assisting the Military Joint Task Force, JTF, to rid the state of terrorists, came to NNPC filling station along the Lagos Street after they had arrested one of the suspects who, they claimed to be very close to the sect leader, Shekau and bundled him into one of their vehicles..

Speaking to newsmen on the issue at the filling station, one of the 'Civilian JTF' members who spoke on the condition of anonymity later said that the suspect was taken to the car wash near the Sanda Kyarimi zoo in the metropolis to show them some of his lieutenants who were hiding with their guns in the area.

- See more at: http://www.vanguardngr.com/2013/06/70-persons-killed-in-bornoplateau-states/#sthash.bWKiHvoL.dpuf

How $27 Million Dollars Vanished in Nigerian Embassy in US

The Senate on Thursday began an inquest into the alleged mismanagement of over $27m proceeds from the sale of Federal Government properties by officials of the Nigerian Embassy in the United States of America.

This follows a petition to the President of the Senate, David Mark, by a non-governmental organisation, Transform Nigeria Movement, praying the Senate to conduct an investigation and make its findings known to the public.

The petition, which was signed by Mr. Daniel Elombah, stated that between 2004 and 2007, the Nigerian Embassy sold four prime properties of the Federal Government located in Washington DC and Maryland.

The petitioner alleged that the embassy also commenced the sale of other properties in San Francisco, California within the period.

Elombah stated in the petition, "Out of those sales, Nigeria realised the sum of approximately $27m. All funds realised from these sales, except those set aside as fees, were remitted to the Embassy of Nigeria in Washington DC.

"As of June 2007, when the law firm that advised the embassy on the sale of the properties met with embassy officials at the embassy premises in Washington, all these funds and transactions were duly confirmed."

The petitioner also alleged that it was confirmed that the embassy placed the funds in a special account with the M & T Bank in Washington DC and remained in that position after Ambassador George Obiozor had returned to Nigeria after completing his service in Washington.

TNM further alleged, "Surprisingly, the Embassy of Nigeria left the money in Washington partly because it yielded substantial monthly interests, which the embassy officials would never have to account for.

"Those funds remained in those accounts throughout the tenure of Ambassador Oluwole Rotimi; then arrived Ambassador Adebowale Adefuye in Washington. When Adefuye got to Washington, those funds were still lodged in the M & T Bank account intact.

"Between the time Adefuye became the ambassador until March of 2012, the millions in the accounts mysteriously disappeared. This became clear when M&T Bank was forced to close the accounts of the Nigerian Embassy and to terminate all banking relations with the embassy at the beginning of 2012."

The petition had a cover note by the Chief of Staff to the President of the Senate, Anthony Manzo, urging the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs to treat it.

Upon the receipt of the petition, the committee summoned Obiozor; Nigeria's Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Joy Ogwu; and Adefuye.

The Chairman of the committee, Senator Matthew Nwagwu, while addressing the ambassadors on the purpose of the investigation, said it was to unravel the mystery surrounding the management of the funds.

He said, "We have invited you because of an allegation of embezzlement in our mission in Washington, particularly the sale of property in the US. It was alleged that the proceeds of the sales have been squandered by certain officials.

"Our job here is to give you a chance to address the committee and tell us what you know about the property sale, management and administration of the accounts, while you were in office. The committee has got a petition and we are not taking it on its face value; we want to give the ambassadors opportunities to explain their own roles.

"We are not a court of law, we are not going on a trial, we are doing this for posterity and to keep the records straight, and I am sure most of you will be happy that we have invited you to have the opportunity to clarify the matter."

The committee decided that it would conduct the investigative hearing behind closed doors, taking the ambassadors separately and promised to brief the press on its findings after the hearing.

I am not quarrelling with Amaechi, I’m old enough to be his father – Jang

Plateau state Governor, Jonah Jang, has declared that he is not at war with the Rivers State Governor, Rotimi Amaechi over the dust raised after the controversial chairmanship election of the Nigerian Governors Forum.

Amaechi had emerged victorious against Jang by polling 19-16 votes, but Jang has since laid claim to the seat, insisting he won by a purported endorsement before the election was held.

He has since opened a parallel secretariat of the body, which is now located within the precinct of the existing one in Central Area, Abuja.

In a chat with newsmen at the Presidential Dinner in Abuja on Wednesday, Jang said he was not having any grudge with Ameachi over the matter, considering that he is old enough to have him as a son.



"Amaechi is my younger brother, infact, I can say son because if you look at Amaechi's age, I'm old enough to be his father," he said.

On Amaechi's statement that he (Amaechi) defeated him at the NGF elections, he retorted "Well, that is his problem, but I know that I am the Chairman of the Nigerian Governors' Forum."

But Ameachi, who also spoke to journalists had asked his rival to stop parading himself as the chairman of the Forum.

"Anybody who support him, including the television house is undemocratic. I have said it in a statement that if we can't accept 19 governors against 16, then we should be afraid of 2015″ he said.

Commenting on his suspension, he stated that "If the party is suspending me for that reason, then too bad; the party too must learn to be democratic.

"I'm not aware that the party has given any reason for suspending me but if they say this is the reason then it is too bad. The party is yet to give me any reason for my suspension, but if that's the reason that means the party is undemocratic."

Kris Jenner Defend Kim K's Baby Name

Kris Jenner is standing behind baby Kimye's name.

The grandmother of the most talked about newborn appeared on Wednesday's episode of "The View" and defended her daughter Kim Kardashian and Kanye West's decision to call their daughter North West.

"There's been a lot of controversy," "View" co-host Barbara Walters said to Jenner.

"I mean, it's funny, but do you really want your child named North West, and would you have preferred it have been a K? Grandma, I know it's their decision, but how do you feel about them naming their little girl North?"

Kanye West has been reportedly 'doting' on his girlfriend and their new baby daughter.
"I love the name North. I'm pro-North, absolutely," the 57-year-old reality star, who is currently promoting her new talk show "Kris," replied.

"The way [Kim] explained it to me, north means highest power, and North is their highest point together. I thought that was really sweet."

"You don't walk around calling somebody, 'Hi, North West!'" she said laughing.
According to multiple reports, the little darling will have the nickname Nori.


Kanye West and Kris Jenner attend a game between the Miami Heat and the Los Angeles Lakers at the Staples Center in December 2010. 
Kardashian, 32, must have her hands full with her bundle of joy as there has yet to be any public sightings or social media uploads from the new mother.

According to an US Weekly report West, 36, has been "doting" on his girlfriend and their new baby.
"Kanye feels he's already deeply changed after having the baby," the source said.

"He's so in love with her and Kim right now."

Mama Jenner's show premieres on July 15 and will air on select Fox television stations.

80 yr old man in Security Net for Defiling 8yr old Baby In Jigawa

The Nigerian civil and security defense corps operating in Jigawa State has arrested one Ahmed Sule [30years of age] at kudai village of dutse local government area for raping and defiling an 8years old Aisha Abdullahi of kudai gabas quarters.

The suspect who is now in the custody of security agents admitted defiling Aisha Abdullahi.

The commandant of the defense corps Alhaji Mahammad Gidado said the suspect will be taken to court to face justice.

The father farther [Malam Abdullahi] to the 8year old victim spoke to 247ureports.com. He revealed that this incident was the second time the suspect tried to destroyed the life of his daughter.  He called on the police and civil defense to deal with such people with such criminal acumen against innocent little girls.

Abdullahi stressed that if not for the aid of good Samaritans in the area – the suspect would have killed his mother. This was because the suspect was found pointing to his mother with a dangerous weapon threating to deal with her because she was the one who exposed him to public.

DON’T FORGET by Damee Jaye

Ok, Where are we? At that stage where you feel you are updated with everything in vogue, forgetting that you came into the world senseless and nude. So why walk as if you wouldn’t die someday and go six feet below the surface of the earth where you’ll become food for the worms. Keep your shoulders down ‘cause in a second you can stumble and fall and that’s the end. You only live once, so make good use of your time while living, ‘cause after death is judgment. There is no issue of reincarnation; that stuff doesn’t exist. And in everything you do, try to make heaven ‘cause guys, hell ain’t a sexy place to be at all. And again don’t let worldly assets make you carried away because you gonna leave all behind when you die.

Think before you talk, anything said can’t be retrieved. Try to be useful anywhere you find yourself, don’t be as useless as the traffic lights in Grand Theft Auto. Hard work pays, you can’t achieve success with an idle hand. Have those sleepless nights now so you can enjoy its benefits in the future. The only time success comes before work is in the dictionary. Be time conscious, time waits for no one but then its equal to everyone. Use it well because its also an asset. Plan your activities; Noah built the Ark before the rain. Your best friend can become your worst enemy. Choose wisely who you share your secrets with. Trust no one except God, He never fails.

Hottest Fashion: LOC™ Apparels

LOC™ Apparels’ is a fast rising fashion design ensemble that has been on the ‘cards’ since March 2012… Run and managed by some young enterprising Nigerians.
 Going through their collections… its evident that they blend traditional designs with the modern trendy outfits in order to suit all kinds of people!!! Available in stock for them are; Custom made Jean Jackets, Ankara pocket polo shirts, Nice Looking animal print shirts, Office and Casual wears, Denim and a whole lot of others.
Good news is… They have got sales reps all over Nigeria and can deliver anywhere, Anytime… To confirm the authenticity of what they are offering to the public.. They have some celebrities like Ice Prince, Dipp, Praiz & Kryptic Kidz endorsing their brand..

You wanna get any of these fashion items ?? Very easy..
Just reach them on: +2348180321046 or BBM: 2351BC81

If you are also interested in marketing the products in your region, Holla at them with the contact details above !! See more some pictures below !!

600 Kwara Indigent Pupils Adopted by State First Lady

No fewer than 600 indigent pupils in Kwara Central Senatorial District were on Friday adopted by the wife of the Kwara state Governor, Mrs Omolewa Ahmed, with a view to taking care of their educational needs.

The First Lady, who was represented by her Special Assistant on Administration and Strategy, Mr. Lanre Bello, announced the adoption in Afon, headquarters of Asa Local Government Area of the State.

She said that the adoption was made under the auspices of "Adopt-A-Child'' initiative of her pet project, LEAH Charity Foundation, adding that the pupils were selected from public schools.

She noted that the foundation will provide all the children's educational materials.

According to Ahmed, the gesture is aimed at alleviating the sufferings of poor parents by providing basic educational needs for their children
free of charge.

She advised parents to take proper care of their wards and materials, stressing that the gesture would last as long as her husband remained in office.

Ahmed also advised the pupils to take their education seriously to ensure that they achieved a brighter future.

Mrs Bukola Akinleye, Administrator of LEAH Foundation, said although education was free in the state, there was more to going to school than
paying school fees.

"Ahmed will provide the uniforms, bags, shoes, socks, water bottles and stationery to enable the indigent pupils to be in school and learn in an
environment that is conducive.

"About 80 children have been adopted in the past exercise,'' she said, and appealed to wealthy individuals to assist the foundation to achieve its objective of empowering the less privileged in the
society.

Dr Mohammed Yahaya, Chairman of the council, said quality education was the best legacy a parent could leave for a child.

Controversy Trails Kumuyi’s Son’s ‘Made in Heaven’ Wedding

It is no longer news that son of 'holiness preacher' and the General Superintendent of Deeper Christian Life Ministry, Pastor W.F Kumuyi walked down the aisle with his heartthrob over the week.

However, teeming followers of the respected former university don have condemned the classy wedding, which they tagged: Un-deeper-life-stic.

A close look at the weeding pictures of the couple posted online saw the bride donned in accessories that had been anathema to the ministry.

She was clad in a transparent fitted stylish short sleeves wedding gown, eyelashes, earrings makeup and wedding flower, which had never happened in the history of the ministry.

An angry follower of Kumuyi, after viewing the pictures commented, "People have refused to live their own life but rather attach it to an apron of hypocritical philosophy and man made doctrine. I exonerate the dynamic Senior Kumuyi,I think it is the people that have refused to change, I respect Kumuyi and his teachings but the people he is teaching are not learning, it is a pity, religion should embrace freedom, that is what the bible said. It only warned that you should not use your liberty for evil, or take the grace for granted."

To another Emeka Jane, the development would lead to something else. She voiced her conviction thus, "I believe that with this, Deeper Life will metamorphose into something else. Those (some members) who have been looking for an opportunity like this to dress as they like, will cease this particular opportunity.

"And who says the lady is not a believer? Another John Edward querried, "Doing what pleases her without being condemned by God on a one in life time event, does that make her an unbeliever. One hymn says, 'if heart condemns you not, you will have a glorious rest' and please don't indulge in sin by judging others, most especially servants of the most high, leave the judgment to God who created all of us." He warned.

Tiwa Savage Looking Sexy On The Cover Of Mania Magazine

On the cover page of the last issue was Linda Ikeji. This issue has Mavins first lady Tiwa Savage, she rocks a multi-cloured swim suit on the cover page posing on a beach. Check out lovely pages from the new issue. The cover page shot was done by Kelechi Amadi Obi the talented photographer.

Goodluck Bars Ministers, Govt Officials From Lavish Parties Abroad

President Goodluck Jonathan is not yet done with heavy spending socialites in his cabinet or the public service.

As a follow up to his recent removal of the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Petroleum Resources, Mr.AbdulAzeez Musa, for allegedly throwing a lavish wedding party for his daughter in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, President Jonathan has threatened to sack any minister or government official who holds an expensive or lavish party at home or abroad.
He said such ostentatious ministers must abide by the Code of Conduct for public officers or quit immediately.
He directed the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mr. Bukar Goni Aji, to write to all permanent secretaries, directors and civil servants to stop such habit while security agencies, especially anti-graft commissions, were asked to keep a watch on ministers and public officers.

It was gathered that the President read the Riot Act to the Ministers at the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting in Abuja on Wednesday following security reports on the extravagant lifestyles of some ministers and public servants.
The security reports exposed how some ministers and officers had been ferrying guests abroad for birthday, marriage, chieftaincy, house warming and funeral parties.
Choice countries for such expensive parties are Dubai and Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, the United States of America, South Africa, Ghana, The Gambia and Ireland.
Some cabinet members were also alleged to have sprayed dollars at such parties.

A Presidency source familiar with the issue said: "The Ministers got more than they bargained for at the FEC meeting when the President spent some time to condemn ostentatious lifestyles of public officers.
"He said he could not understand why ministers and public officers would be throwing lavish parties at home and abroad in a country where people cannot afford three square meals."

The source quoted the President as saying: "I will sack whoever is found to be indulging in this unnecessary and expensive partying at home or abroad from this cabinet. Enough is enough.

"Why will a public officer on salary be organising parties abroad with many guests flying there on his ticket? All public officers engaging in this habit will henceforth be shown the way out. The Head of the Civil Service of the Federation should write a directive to all permanent secretaries, directors and civil servants to abide by their Code of Conduct and Civil Service Rules and Regulations."

Asked how the ministers reacted when the President read the riot act, the source added: "There was pin-drop silence at the Executive Chambers of the Presidential Villa. They all got the message."
It was however baffling, even to the President and some ministers, that those who briefed the press after the weekly FEC meeting "shielded the ban on partying away from the issues treated.
"None of the Ministers at the post-FEC briefing mentioned this important directive of the President," the source noted.

It was learnt that the presidency has placed security agencies, especially anti-graft commissions, on the alert to watch out for such extravagant public officers.
Another presidency source added: "Henceforth, all ministers and public officers will be under watch by anti-graft agencies in order to fish out the bad ones.
"Certainly, there is no more hiding place for cabinet members."
This is the second time FEC members would be warned against reckless spending.

The late President Umaru Yar'Adua had, at a FEC meeting in 2009, taken exception to how a minister allegedly spent about N125 million on his 25th wedding anniversary.
Recently, Euromonitor International revealed that Nigerians spent $59 million on champagne alone in 2012.
According to Euromonitor International, "Nigeria is among the fastest-growing countries in the world for champagne consumption, spending an estimated $59 million in 2012 on bubbly.
"That number is up from $49 million in 2011, and the firm forecasts that the country will spend some $105 million on fizz in 2017.

"Analysts say oil wealth, hip-hop, movie stars and an elite obsessed with status symbols have driven demand."

Train Collides With Truck In Lagos

The train and truck last night
FIVE people narrowly escaped death last night after a train ran into a truck laden with laterite at the PWD railway crossing, opposite the Nigerian Air Force Base in Ikeja, Lagos. According to eyewitnesses, the driver of the truck, with registration number LAGOS XY 288 JJJ, attempted to play smart by crossing the railway line, but failed to make it before the speeding train rammed into it. Eyewitnesses disclosed to The Nation that the accident caused serious commotion as thousands of passengers, some of who were sitting on the roof of the train scrambled for safety. Though no life was lost in the accident, but five unlucky passengers, who were left critically injured, were rushed to nearby hospital where doctors are presently battling to save their lives. The accident, which happened at about 7:30pm last night, led to serious traffic gridlock along the Agege Motor road, as the train, said to be coming from Ebutte-Metta and heading for Agbado, had to terminate its journey, leaving of its passengers stranded. The fate of the injured passengers was uncertain as at press time last night.

FCTA Drags Mamu Before NUJ, NGE, NPAN

In separate letters, the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), through the SA Media to the FCT Minister, Nosike Ogbuenyi has lodged strong protests with the NUJ, NGE, NPC and NPAN against the publisher of Desert Herald weekly magazine over sundry professional misconduct including attempted blackmail and extortion. Below is one of the petitions which was addressed to the NUJ national president:

The President,                    

Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ),

National Headquarters,

Area 11,

Abuja.

 

Sir,

 

COMPLAINT OVER PERPETRATION OF BLACKMAIL, EXTORTION, DEFAMATION AND LIBEL BY ONE MALLAM TUKUR MAMU, THE PUBLISHER OF DESERT HERALD MAGAZINE AGAINST THE HON. MINISTER OF FCT, SENATOR BALA MOHAMMED.

I write on behalf of the Hon. Minister of FCT, Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed,CON, FABS to draw your esteemed attention to the unprofessional conduct of one Mallam Tukur Mamu, the publisher of Kaduna based Desert Herald magazine. Mallam Mamu has been serially indulging in acts of blackmail, extortion, defamation and libel against the person of the Hon. Minister through several advertorials, stories and interviews in at least four successive editions of the Desert Herald magazine. He has also granted many exclusive interviews to the Leadership Newspaper one of which was published on June 6, 2013 spanning two full pages.

Following his serial blackmail, defamation and libel against the person of the Hon. Minister and the FCT Administration, we feel duty bound to alert you as a highly placed stakeholder in our noble profession of journalism with the hope that you will take steps to call him to order.

In pursuit of his own strange brand of journalism, Mamu seems to have thrown decorum and the ethics of the journalism profession to the dogs. From nowhere, he came up with a banner advertorial on the front page of the Desert Herald edition of May 14th 2013 announcing to the general public that he had virtually concluded work on a 284-page book detailing what he described as the rot within the FCT Administration under the incumbent Minister. In the promo he ran on the so-called book, he called the Hon. Minister a sick, incompetent and corrupt person among others while inviting all and sundry to post their contributions to what he claimed to be the last chapter of the book.

We view Mallam Mamu as a professional blackmailer and extortionist whose stock in trade is moving from one highly placed public office holder to another with cleverly woven tales of non-existent corruption and scandals. His ultimate aim in doing so is to create anxiety and panic in the minds of his target victims before pouncing on them to extort huge sums of money.

In the current case of the FCTA, Mamu made a well chronicled attempt to blackmail and extort N15 million from the FCT Minister through my humble self (the SA Media to the Hon. Minister). Mamu's escapade however, back-fired on him as the telephone conversation he had with me on Wednesday 15th June, 2013 was recorded. It was after the recorded conversation that he sent two text messages to my phone asking for payment of the sum of N15 million Naira (as a condition for him to discard his book) and forwarding his account number with First Bank Plc for the payment.

Sir, it is the Hon. Minister's belief that through his nefarious activities including extortion, Tukur Mamu has caused needless distraction to many innocent Nigerians and has brought the noble profession of journalism into disrepute. Therefore, the Hon. Minister has no regret in refusing to flout the rules and ethics of the journalism profession by bribing such a daring extortionist and blackmailer via the payment of the sum of N15 million he had demanded to kill his make-believe book on his imaginary rot within the FCTA.

FOR EMPHASIS, SIR, SENATOR BALA ABDULKADIR MOHAMMED, THE HON. MINISTER OF FCT HAS VOWED NEVER TO SUCCUMB TO PAY ANY EXTORTIONIST AND BLACKMAILER AS THE LIKES OF MAMU WOULD WANT HIM TO DO.

The Hon. Minister believes that doing so would be a great disservice not only to the noble profession of journalism that he is a proud member of, but also help in energizing the cankerworm of extortion and blackmail to continue to spread and flourish in our society. The Hon. Minister equally believes that bowing to the cajolery of Mamu and his cohorts will not be pleasing to Almighty Allah, the Creator who watches over every action of all mortals. He would rather choose to please God and suffer distractions and attacks from mischief makers and the gullible than do the biddings of (the) Mamus of this world and their gang of rogues masquerading as journalists or publishers.

The Hon. Minister holds you and your members in high esteem as professionals who will at all time stand firmly for high ethical and moral standards, balance, objectivity and fairness in the journalism practice. It is his strong belief that there still abound many credible journalists in the country who hold on to the ethics of the profession.

Notwithstanding the fact that the Hon. Minister has declared his intention to seek redress in a court of competent jurisdiction, he believes that the Nigeria Union of Journalists, as custodians of the ethics of the profession cannot fold its hands while impostors and blackmailers like Tukur Mamu continue to dent the image of the profession. He therefore requests that you use your good offices to investigate the antecedents of Mamu and his activities as a serial blackmailer with a view to placing a disclaimer on him.

Please note that we have enclosed a copy of the letter of intent to sue Mallam Mamu, including transcript, as well as a CD of his telephone conversation with me during which he demanded for compensation to drop the story.

Thanks in anticipation of your speedy response to this petition.

Yours Sincerely
 

Nosike Ogbuenyi

Special Assistant (Media) to the Hon. Minister of FCT.

Paula Deen Fired by Food Network; Contract Not Renewed

It looks like Food Network isn't accepting Paula Deen's apology. In the wake of the 66-year-old celebrity chef's racial slur scandal, a spokeswoman for the network released a statement on Friday, June 21, announcing that she's been fired.

"Food Network will not renew Paula
Deen's contract when it expires at the end of this month," a Food Network spokeswoman said in a statement to Us Weekly.
Deen came under fire after admitting last month under oath in a deposition to using racial slurs -- including the N-word -- in the past. After bailing last minute from a scheduled appearance on the TODAY show on Friday to address the scandal, Deen released two video apologies on YouTube.

"I want people to understand that my family and I are not the kind of people that the press say that we are. I've spent the best of 24 years to help myself and others. Your color of skin, your religion, your sexual preference does not matter to me," she said in the second, less rambling message. "I am here to say that I am so sorry. I was wrong, yes. I've worked hard and I've made some mistakes. But that is no excuse."
Deen offered her "sincere apology" and said it "comes from the deepest part of my heart."

The Emmy-winning star began working for the Food Network in 1999.

“I don’t do cheap money” Wizkid mocks unilag students after his arrest

Wizkid and his manger were allegedly invited by men of the Nigeria Police Force -  Zone 2 Command, Onikan, yesterday June 19th after students of the University of Lagos reported the music star to the police.

The students claim that Wizkid collected N500,000 from them as full payment for a show that was supposed to hold at UNILAG Sports Centre on May 24th tagged Concert of Life.

They claim Wizkid didn't show up for the show and didn't return their money so they went to the police.
Wizkid was at Zone 2 for a few hours this afternoon with his team.
He was bailed by his lawyer after he wrote a statement and was asked to report back to the station next week.
Hopefully, Wizkid's camp will eventually release a statement clearing the air.

2 Chainz, D’banj, Wizkid, Naeto C, Olamide, Kay Switch & More to Perform at the “D’ Kings Men Live in Concert” Show in Lagos

It's going to be a star studded Lagos party this weekend.

Nigerian music star D'banj and American rap star 2 Chainz will headline the D'Kings Men Live in Concert show taking place this Sunday at the Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos.

The show which is to launch the DKM (D'Kings Men) album, will feature performances by Kay Switch, J Sol, Olamide, Naeto C, Iyanya, Durella, Ikechukwu "Killz" and Wizkid.

According to the organizers, there will also be a surprise international act in attendance. Can't wait to see who.

Get your tickets online or at the following locations below. See you all there.

D'Kings Men Live in Concert

Date: Sunday 23rd June 2013

Time: 7 PM

Venue: Eko Convention Centre, Eko Hotel & Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos

Ticket Prices: Regular N 5,000 | VIP N 25,000 | Table N 1 Million | State Box N 2.5 Million

Ticket Locations: NaijaTicketShop.com | Eko Hotel & Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos | Silverbird Galleria, 133 Ahmadu Bello Way, Victoria Island, Lagos | Silverbird Cinemas, Ikeja, Lagos | Oxone Cinemas, 1-11 E-Commercial Avenue, Yaba, Lagos | Dominos Pizza/Coldstone Creamery, Victoria Island and Lekki, Lagos

Contact: For more info and general inquiries, call 08152122911 | 08187341191

Watch the TVC

Iyanya, Chidinma & Other Past Winners of MTN Project Fame West Africa Tour Nigeria As Season 6 Starts

The music reality show scene is really heating up with Etisalat & Pepsi's Idols, Glo's X-factor and the most popular MTN Project Fame West Africa. All producing winners and grooming local talent. These shows are getting bigger and better each year with more and more money to be won.

With all of them trying to outdo each other it's a war of talents and shows. However when the dust settles it's the viewers, listeners and music-lovers who decides who really wins, as they decide which of the winners eventually becomes a household name and gets the juicy money from brand ambassador endorsements, concerts and  performances.

Looking at the show with most awards won by its contestants and by the local street credibility they have developed, MTN Project Fame stands out clearly, with a string of contestants winning both local and international awards. These awards include a Headies(Iyanya) a Soundcity MVA prize, a Ghana Music Award and Chidinma's Africa KORA award among others. The show itself won four awards at the TAVA Awards in 2011.

This year MTN Project Fame is showcasing the various talents that it has helped to nurture into superstars who are household names not only in Nigeria, but who also are touring aboard, by taking the PF All STARS on a local tour incorporating Calabar on June 21st at the cultural centre, Mary Slessor Ave Calabar and Lagos on June 28th at the Lagos Oriental Hotel, Lekki.

It promises to be a celebration of great talent discovered and nurtured by MTN Project Fame.


Chidinma the MTN PF 2010 winner has deservedly won an International KORA award in Dec 2012 for her powerful song Kedike.
The two, explosive ALL STAR concerts will hold in, Calabar and Lagos. Where award-winning winners like Iyanya, iMyke and Chidinma will be performing with newly crowned season 4 & 5 winners Monica and Ayo and several other stars from Ghana, Liberia and Sierra Leone to make it a MTN project Fame All Stars gathering.

Full All Start concert details available on www.projectfamewestafrica.com

I Will Not Resign, Tukur Dares Jonathan

The National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, Dr. Bamanga Tukur, on Tuesday told those seeking his removal from office that his job was not vacant.

"Chairman is there dam! dam! The chairman is not only in office, he is also in power. In PDP, there is no vacancy in the national chairmanship," he boasted to State House correspondents after the party's National Working Committee meeting with President Goodluck Jonathan in Abuja on Tuesday.

Ahead of the PDP National Executive Council meeting scheduled for Thursday, there had been reports that Tukur and other members of the NWC of the PDP had been directed by Jonathan to resign.

Tukur told the State House correspondents that he would not resign as the national chairman of the party because "we are here to run the PDP."

"It is not true that I am resigning. Resign for what? It is not true at all. We will continue to run the PDP," he added, but went ahead to confirm that eight members of the NWC whose elections were faulted by the Independent National Electoral Commission would resign.

He said himself, the National Financial Secretary, the National Auditor and the National Secretary whose office is already vacant were not affected.

Those who will resign, according to Tukur, are all the deputies, and all ex-officio members.

Bishop Oyedepo Suspends Covenant University’s Former Vice-Chancellor For Examination Fraud

Professor Aize Obayan, a former Vice Chancellor of Covenant University, Ota has been suspended from her position as director of the Education Commission of the Winners Chapel by the church's general overseer, Bishop David Oyedepo.

Ms. Obayan was suspended for reportedly altering examination results for several students in the department of Mass Communications. Among the students who benefited from the former VC's grade alteration was Ms. Obayan's own daughter.

The former VC's daughter graduated with a Second Class Upper Division in Mass Communication and is currently doing her National Youth Service Corps service.

A source at the university revealed that Ms. Obayan inflated all of her daughter's scores, otherwise the young woman would have earned a Third Class degree.

Our source added that the former VC had re-introduced make-up examination without proper authorization – and after the university's Senate had abolished the option. "She introduced make-up exam to enable her daughter [to] retake the course she failed," said a source.

Recently, a Dr. Omojola, a lecturer in the Department of Mass Communication, petitioned the Chancellor of the University after his first protest was suppressed by the then VC. In his protest, Mr. Omojola alleged that Nnamdi Ekeanyanwu, the acting Head of Department of Mass Communication, had engaged in extensive alteration of students' examination results. The petition led to Mr. Ekeanyanwu's removal as Head of Department. Dr. Stanley Ngoa replaced him, but spent only the 2011-2012 session at the helm, before the former VC reappointed Dr. Ekeanyawu to return as departmental head.

Our source indicated that, with Dr. Ekeanyanwu's return, the fraudulent practice of grade alteration worsened in the Mass Communication Department and across other departments of the university, including Chemistry where one student's score was raised to 45% from 5 %, an outright failure. Associate Professor Taiwo Abioye, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Administration, headed a panel appointed by the Chancellor, Professor C.K. Ayo, to investigate the case. Dr. Ekeanyanwu was summoned by the panel to defend himself on charges of altering examination scores of students, including Miss Obayan, for monetary benefits. He not only accepted his guilt for all the charges, but also confessed that he acted in collusion with the former VC, Professor Obayan.

Ms. Obayan was also invited to appear before the Abioye panel, but she reportedly offered no defense.

Pastor Faith Oyedepo, wife of Bishop Oyedepo, has taken over the duties of Ms. Obayan at the church's secretariat. SaharaReporters learned that plans were underway to return Dr. Daniel Rotimi to the Education Commission. Mr. Rotimi was a one-time registrar of the University.

SaharaReporters learned that Mr. Rotimi, who is a pastor, last year married a second wife (a former student at Covenant University) in his quest for a male child. He and his first wife had only girls. A lecturer at Covenant University told SaharaReporters that he wondered whether the university could really realize its much touted claim of raising a new generation of African leaders when top officials at the school offer examination grades for sale?

JAMB Official Cut-Off Marks 2013/2014 are as follows...

The Federal Government on Tuesday in Abuja approved cut-off marks for admission into tertiary institutions for the 2013/2014 academic session.

The Minister of Education, Ruqayyatu Rufa'i, announced the cut-off marks into Colleges of Education, Polytechnics and other degree-awarding institutions as 150 while 180 is for Federal Universities.

Rufa'i said this at the Fourth Combined Policy Meeting on Admission to Degree-Awarding Institutions, National Diploma (ND), Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE) and National Innovation Diploma (NID) awarding institutions.

She said the meeting was to plan for the selection of qualified candidates into the nations tertiary institutions and also to restore confidence in the education system.

"I implore all stakeholders to follow the Federal Government's guidelines on admission which stipulates a 70:30 Technology/Non-Technology ratio for ND programmes.

"Also, 60:40 Science/Arts ratio for Degree and Nigeria Certificate in Education programmes and also to observe the criteria on merit, catchments and educationally less developed states.

"In addition, we must not forget the carrying-capacity of our institutions as approved by the accrediting bodies,'' she said.

According to her, the accreditation bodies are the National Universities Commission (NUC), National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) and National Commission for Colleges of Education (NCCE).

Rufa'i said in order to enhance the carrying capacities of the country's institutions the ministry had undertaken continuous development and rehabilitation of infrastructure in the institutions of higher learning.

She, however, said the Tertiary Education Trust Fund had disbursed N256.4 billion over the past three years for diverse development activities in the institutions.

She said that at the polytechnic level all the 51 Federal and state and polytechnics had benefited from rehabilitation and upgrading of their laboratories to 21st century standards at a total of N15 billion.

She said that this had helped to enhance the teaching and learning process in the institutions.

She also said that work had also started on the construction of micro-teaching laboratories in our colleges of education.

The minister also said that all Federal Colleges of Education and one state College of Education per state would benefit from this, making a total of 58 institutions at a cost of N11.6 billion.

"I am pleased that these interventions continue to translate to expanded carrying capacity in our institutions.

"For this academic year, we expect carrying capacity to increase from 400,691 admitted last year to over 500,000.

"I urge all institutions to carefully examine their carrying capacities in relation to their expanding infrastructure. You must make sure that you fill the quota for each course.''

She called on all institutions to adhere to the admission timetable as prepared by the Joint Admission and Matriculation Board (JAMB).

Rufa'i commended JAMB on the successful conduct of the 2013 UTME.

The Registrar of JAMB, Prof. Dibu Ojerinde, said the meeting was to prepare grounds for needed capital development to engineer the Nigerian Technological growth that would be attained through quality and functional education of the citizens.

"Let me remind all the federal institutions that the ratio of 45:35:20 for merit, catchment and educationally less-developed states, respectively, is still in force and should be adhered to strictly to ensure national cohesion.

"All Nigerians must be given the opportunity to mix and educate freely in any part of the country.''

Ojerinde also said the ratio of 40:40:20 for state-owned institutions must be strictly adhered to.

(NAN)

J Martins gives $10,000 wristwatch to 18 year old fan while on stage

Aww this is so cool.

Musician J Martins surprised one of his fans, 18 year old Musa Isa, over the weekend – Saturday (June 15) to be precise.

While the artiste was performing on stage during the 2nd leg of the Star Music Trek in Lokoja, he surprised everyone by inviting Musa to join him on stage and gave him a wrist watch valued at $10, 000 (N1.5million). The action got the audeince screaming out loud.

J.Martins who recently walked the aisle, urged the secondary school student to work hard and face his studies squarely.
Whispering into Musa's ears…"Now sell the watch and put the money into a savings to help further your education".

God bless J Martins!!!!

Kidnapped Baby Returned At Winners Chapel

A little girl kidnapped from the Children department of the Living Faith Church in Ota, Ogun State, has been found.

The girl was brought to church on Sunday by her parents.

The girl, now around four years was reportedly sold to a woman in Kano.

Known as Praise, she was taken away from the woman after the man that kidnapped her confessed to committing the crime.

The kidnapper said he was struck with a strange disease after kidnapping Praise. He also became blind.

In addition to this, he said he was always seeing the founder of the church, Bishop David Oyedepo, pursuing him with a sword in his dream, hence his decision to confess his sin.

The Bishop said the self-confessed kidnapper was taken to a brançh of Winners Church by his wife

Keshi Thankful As Nigeria Emerge Unscathed

BELO HORIZONTE, Brazil (AFP) – Nigeria coach Stephen Keshi said he was relieved his side had avoided any further injuries after they thrashed minnows Tahiti 6-1 in their opening game at the Confederations Cup in Belo Horizonte.

Forwards Victor Moses, Kalu Uche and Emmanuel Emenike were all ruled out by injury before the tournament, while midfielder Ogenyi Onazi missed Monday's game with a knee problem.

Keshi hopes the Lazio player will be available for Thursday's encounter with Uruguay, which is likely to play a significant role in determining whether or not Nigeria progress from Group B.


Nigeria forward Brown Ideye rounds Tahiti goalkeeper Xavier Samin to score on June 17, 2013. By Eitan Abramovich (AFP)

"There are no (new) injuries to the players, because I've already lost four players," he said.

"With all this journey we've been having, arriving yesterday (Sunday) morning at four o'clock, I'm just happy there's no major problems concerning injuries."

Nigeria's preparations were disrupted by a dispute over bonus payments that meant the squad did not arrive until 36 hours before their first game.

Speaking ahead of the game, captain Vincent Enyeama had revealed that the disagreement remained unresolved, but Keshi said that was not the case.

"The issue of the bonuses has been settled. Nothing is holding us back anymore and all we need to do now is play football," he said.

Nnamdi Oduamadi, who scored a hat-trick for the African champions at Estadio Mineirao, said the players had put the dispute behind them.

"I'll say it's a big relief now, due to the stuff we had with the delay and missing the flights," said the 22-year-old forward, who spent the 2012-13 season on loan at Italian second-tier side Varese from AC Milan.

"This victory will give us a big morale. We'll talk in the group now, do everything the coach says, and we'll see what happens in the second game."

Nigeria's victory took them above Spain on goal difference at the top of Group B.

18+: Naked women on Big Brother Africa? By God, the UK Sun is shocked – SHOCKED!

Big Brother viewers in Africa can sign up to a special VIP service which allows them to watch the show's contestants washing naked in the bathroom.

The sordid "private pass", which costs a one-off fee of 70 South African Rand (£5), gives subscribers access to footage of the housemates under the covers, after dark and during "shower hour".

This week the uncut scenes have included clips of female housemates Pokello Nare and Cleo in various states of undress in the bathroom.

Pokello, 27, from Zimbabwe, was seen completely naked bathing in the tub.

While viewers could watch Cleo, 23, from Zambia, scrubbing herself clean while topless in the shower.

Anyone aged over 18 can sign up to BBVIP to watch the daily hour-long footage of the housemates in the shower or bath.

Pokello Nare was seen getting out of the bath

The private pass also allows subscribers to see unseen clips from the Diary Room, and access behind the scenes video of show guests and evicted housemates.

Big Brother Africa, which features 28 contestants from 14 African nations, is currently airing its eighth series.

Read more: UK Sun