N3.1bn fraud: I brought $15.8m to Suswam at home – Witness
A witness of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Abubakar Umar, has said that he gave a former governor of Benue, Gabriel Suswam the sum of $15.8 million cash (N3.1 billion) at his Abuja residence in 2014. The former governor and his finance commissioner, Omadachi Okolobia were accused of diverting N3.1 billion from the state coffers.They were arraigned before Ahmed Mohammed, a federal high court judge in 2015. They were re-arraigned on an 11-count charge bordering on money laundering in 2020.During Friday’s proceedings, Umar, a bureau de change operator, told the court how he received money from Suswam through proxies on numerous occasions in tranches.He said, “One day in 2014, when I was in the office, the former governor of Benue State asked me to meet him in his house in Maitama, Abuja. I went and met him in the house together with one fair-skinned woman.“He asked me to give the woman my account number. I gave the woman my Zenith Bank account number. The woman said she would send money into that account.“On the 8th of August 2014, N413 million was transferred to my account. Based on this, I called the former governor and he told me to change the money to dollars and I asked him to give me time to do that.“Three days after I bought the dollar equivalent, I called the former governor and informed him that the money was ready. He asked me to take the money to his house in Maitama, near Jumat Mosque. I now told him that he should inform the security at the gate that I was coming, if not they would not allow me access to the house.“I took a cab to the house, and after I arrived at the house, I knocked at the gate and they opened. I told them my name. They opened the first and second gates and I sat in the waiting room where he came and met me.“I now brought out the money which we both confirmed to be the equivalent of the N413 million.“The total money transferred to my account was N3 billion.”The judge presiding over the case, Peter Lifu adjourned the matter till October 4, 2024, for continuation of trial after hearing the testimony of the witness.
PDP Elders Forum apologizes to Wike over Fubara
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Elders Forum has waded into the acrimonious relationship between Governor Siminalaye Fubara of Rivers State and his predecessor and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike.The PDP Elders apologized to Wike “for what Fubara is doing to you” on Saturday (today) at the Rivers State Ijaw Peoples Congress.Led by the Executive Director of Finance, NDDC, Boma Iyaye, the elders said the Ijaw people were sorry for the bitter exchange of insults and disregard for the minister by Governor Fubara.Since Wike and Fubara fell out, the state has been embroiled in an intense year-long political crisis that has continued to defy resolution even with the intervention of President Bola Tinubu and other prominent Nigerians.The elders said: “On behalf of our people, we are apologizing to you for what our son is doing to you.“We are sorry. We are sorry o, because it is not in our nature to pay evil for good. You have done well for us, and we will continue to say, thank you.“Your excellency, do not because of this bad behaviour of our son, run away from us. Continue to be our brother. Continue to have us in mind.“We have never set our feet on the number one seat of Rivers State. You made it possible for us to become the governor of Rivers State.”
FIFA ban Argentina goalkeeper, Martinez for offensive behaviour
The Federation of International Football Association (FIFA) has banned Argentina’s World Cup-winning goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez for two matches for offensive behaviour. Announcing the development on Saturday, the Argentine Football Association (AFA) said the 32-year-old Aston Villa star was also found guilty of “violating principles of fairplay” on two separate occasions.The penalty-saving goalkeeper was found to have violated FIFA’s code of conduct when holding a replica of the Copa America trophy to his groin after the World Cup qualifier win over Chile on September 5.Martinez has performed such an action once in the past, having also done it with the Golden Glove trophy for best goalkeeper after Argentina beat France on penalties in the 2022 World Cup final.FIFA also sanctioned him for hitting a TV cameraman’s camera with his gloves after their 2-1 defeat to Colombia on September 10.Expressing its dissatisfaction with the FIFA ruling, the AFA said in a statement, “It should be noted that the Argentine Football Association expresses its absolute disagreement with the decision taken by the FIFA disciplinary committee.”With the ban, Martinez, who was also a key member of the Argentina side that won the Copa America in July, as well as the 2021 edition will miss the World Cup qualifiers against Venezuela on October 10 and Bolivia on October 15.Argentina are top of the South American qualifying table with 18 points after eight matches with Colombia just two points behind.
Actress Bukola Olatunji Welcomes New Baby in the U.S, Celebrates Joyful Milestone
Nollywood actress Bukola Olatunji has welcomed a new baby. She gave birth in the United States at Queens Hospital Center in New York. The joyful news was shared on her Instagram page, where she expressed deep gratitude to God for the safe delivery of her child. Bukola’s heartfelt Instagram post, stating, “It’s the Lord’s doing, and it is marvelous in our sight,” quickly gained over 4,000 reactions, with fans and colleagues flooding the comments section with congratulations and prayers.Many prominent figures from Nollywood, including Fathia Williams, Kemi Afolabi-Adesipe, and Taiwo Ajisefini, joined in celebrating the happy occasion, showing their excitement and offering well-wishes. Bukola Olatunji’s announcement has been met with widespread joy from her fans and the entertainment industry alike, many of whom have followed her career over the years.Her journey to motherhood has inspired many, and the overwhelming support emphasizes the strong connection she shares with her fans and peers. As she embarks on this new chapter, her fans and Nollywood colleagues continue to celebrate this beautiful blessing with her.
Angelique Kidjo Announces Release Date for ‘JOY’ Music Video Collaboration with Davido
World-renowned Beninese singer Angelique Kidjo has officially announced the release date for the highly anticipated music video for her song “JOY,” featuring Nigerian Afropop superstar Davido. The music video is planned to be released on the 2nd of October 2024, markinga huge collaboration between two of Africa’s most celebrated artists. Kidjo, a five-time Grammy Award winner, took to Instagram and other social media platforms to express her excitement about the upcoming release. In her post, she shared, “I’m so happy with this one, hope you’ll like it as much as I do!” Her enthusiasm resounded with her fans, as they eagerly await the release of what is sure to be a vibrant and captivating visual experience. https://www.instagram.com/reel/DAbRnqnMgLe/?igsh=czlmdGc2aTU5aGYy The collaboration between Kidjo and Davido has been met with great expectation, as it merges two distinct yet complementary musical styles. Kidjo, known for her diverse fusion of African traditional music with elements of jazz, funk, and world music, has long been a powerful voice in the global music scene. Davido, on the other hand, has dominated the Afropop scene with his contagious beats and captivating stage presence, making him one of Africa’s most influential contemporary artists. The music video for “JOY” was directed by renowned Nigerian music video director Dammy Twitch, who is known for his visually stunning and creatively innovative work. Twitch’s direction is expected to bring out the unique blend of styles and artistic sensibilities of both Kidjo and Davido, creating a music video that captures the significance of the song while showcasing the cultural richness of their collaboration. His previous work with top Nigerian artists, including Davido, has always been praised for its high production quality and attention to detail, which fans expect to see once again in the “JOY” video. The collaboration between Angelique Kidjo and Davido is not only significant for the blending of their musical talents but also for its cultural impact. Kidjo has been a longtime advocate for using music to promote African culture and unity, and her decision to collaborate with Davido highlights the bridge between generations of African music icons. Furthermore, Kidjo represents a seasoned, globally prominent artist with deep roots in traditional African sounds, while Davido signifies the new wave of Afropop that has taken the world by storm in recent years. Together, they offer a fusion of the past and present, celebrating the evolution of African music on the global stage. Fans of both artists are eagerly counting down the days to the music video’s release. Many have expressed their excitement on social media, sharing their thoughts on what they expect from the collaboration. For Kidjo and Davido, “JOY” represents more than just a song—it symbolizes a cross-generational and cross-cultural collaboration that unites different aspects of African music and presents it to a global audience. The song itself, “JOY,” has already earned significant attention since its release, with its uplifting message and infectious rhythm resonating with listeners. The upcoming music video is expected to boost the song’s impact, offering a visual representation of the joy and creativity that the song conveys. Kidjo’s ability to weave storytelling into her music, connected with Davido’s energetic and dynamic performance style, makes this collaboration one to watch. For both Kidjo and Davido, “JOY” is poised to be an important milestone in their careers. It further solidifies Kidjo’s position as a cultural ambassador for Africa, going on with her legacy of using music as a tool for social change and cultural celebration. For Davido, the collaboration symbolizes another achievement in his already star career, allowing him to further expand his influence and reach beyond the Afropop genre. As the release date approaches, fans across the world are eagerly awaiting the debut of what promises to be a visually stunning and culturally significant music video. With both artists’ immense creativity and influence, “JOY” is set to make a lasting impression on the global music scene.
UK Government Weighs Crackdown on Pub Hours to Curb Drinking and Improve Health
The current UK government, led by the Labour Party, may soon force pubs to close earlier in an effort to tackle harmful drinking and improve public health. The proposal seeks to reverse the more relaxed, “Continental café-style” drinking culture introduced by former Prime Minister Sir Tony Blair, which allowed pubs to apply for 24-hour licences. Public Health Minister Andrew Gwynne has indicated that the government is reviewing pub and bar operating hours as part of a broader initiative to address rising hospital admissions and growing concerns over the nation’s health. This move is also part of an effort to combat anti-social behaviour linked to excessive drinking. At the Labour Party conference, Mr. Gwynne explained that ministers are considering tightening pub hours in areas where excessive drinking poses significant health risks. He emphasised the importance of these discussions, noting that current policies may not be sufficient to curtail the negative impacts of overconsumption. Professor Sir Chris Whitty, the Chief Medical Officer, has reportedly warned ministers that if current health trends continue, 60 percent of the NHS budget could soon be spent on preventable diseases. Currently, 40 percent of the budget is allocated to such conditions, underscoring the urgency for reform. The potential crackdown on pub hours is being considered alongside measures to combat obesity, including pushing the food industry to reduce fat, sugar, and salt in everyday foods. These actions are part of the government’s broader health agenda aimed at reducing the UK’s overall disease burden. However, critics are pushing back. Chris Snowdon, head of lifestyle economics at the Institute of Economic Affairs, criticised the potential rollback of 24-hour pub licences, a policy introduced under Sir Tony Blair’s government. “The last Labour government’s decision to relax licensing laws was a great success, but it seems the new government wants to hammer pubs any way it can,” Snowdon said
Ondo govt approves N3.5b for schools renovation
The Ondo State Government has approved a N3.5 billion counterpart fund for the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), aimed at bolstering the construction and renovation of public primary schools across the state. Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s Chief Press Secretary, Ebenezer Adeniyan in a statement said the governor revealed the plan during the State Executive Council meeting on Thursday. Addressing journalists after the meeting, Commissioner for Education, Olaolu Akindolire, highlighted that the approved counterpart fund will unlock over N7 billion from UBEC to facilitate the construction and renovation of public schools across the state’s three senatorial districts. He applauded the governor’s consistent focus on improving the educational sector. In another development, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Amidu Takuro, announced the State Executive Council’s approval of Oba Daramola Oluwasola Samuel as the new Olupele of Ipele in Owo Local Government Area. The council also sanctioned the elevation of the Olusan of Ayesan chieftaincy to monarchical status and the division of the Alale of Idasen stool into two—Alale Ile and Alale Oko. Meanwhile, the Commissioner for Environment, Oyeniyi Oseni, conveyed the government’s deep sympathy to the residents of Aiyetoro in the Ilaje Local Government Area, who have been suffering from repeated sea incursions. He reported that a technical review of the Aiyetoro shoreline protection project has been completed, and the state will soon implement both short-term and long-term solutions to curb future flooding. In the health sector, Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, Simidele Odimayo, announced the state’s satisfaction with the low incidence of Lassa fever in September, alongside zero reported cases of cholera and monkeypox. He urged communities to remain vigilant and proactive in maintaining public health. Odimayo also introduced the upcoming “Project 10 Million,” a nationwide health initiative set for October 13-19, 2024, which aims to screen residents for hypertension and diabetes—two major contributors to sudden deaths. In line with the government’s healthcare reforms, primary healthcare facilities across all 203 wards in the state will undergo renovation, which includes the installation of security fencing, staff accommodation, solar power, and boreholes. More so, Commissioner for Information, Otunba Wale Akinlosotu, reiterated the governor’s pledge to fix all potholes across the state. He said the governor tasked the Ministry of Infrastructure with ensuring that by December 2024, all major roads in Ondo State are pothole-free. He also assured residents of the administration’s commitment to regular salary payments for workers and called on citizens to remain law-abiding as the state’s gubernatorial election approaches.
#EndBadGovernance protest Lagos CP meet with organisers
Ahead of the October 1 EndBadGovernance protest, the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Olanrewaju Ishola, held a strategic meeting with the protest organisers at the state headquarters in Ikeja. According to a statement released by the state’s Police Public Relations Officer, Benjamin Hundeyin, the meeting was part of proactive efforts to maintain law and order before, during, and after the protest. Commissioner Ishola reassured the organisers that robust security arrangements had been coordinated with sister security agencies to ensure the safety of both protesters and the general public. He emphasised the importance of maintaining a peaceful and law-abiding demonstration, urging the organisers to uphold these standards throughout the event. Additionally, Mr Ishola directed the immediate and strategic deployment of both human and operational resources across key areas in the state to forestall any breakdown of law and order. He also instructed the deployed officers to carry out their duties with professionalism, civility, and firmness. The protest organisers, in turn, affirmed their commitment to a peaceful demonstration and assured the police that all participants would adhere to the law. Among those present at the meeting were prominent figures, including Dabiradura Adeyinka, Alex Omotehnse, I. Tobiloba, Lawal Adewale, Adewale Ojo, Declan I., Funmi Jolade Ajayi, Akintunde Adedeji, Balogun Hameed, Aghedo Stephen, Edafe Oghenebrume, H.O.T. Duro, Isaac Obasi, Soweto, Oloye Adeniji, Aishat Omolara, Barrister Chuks Nwobi, Emmanuel Ajide Esq., Femi Akinyemi, Esq. (of Falana & Falana Chambers), and Comrade Oguntunji.
Giving Your Child a Phone? It Could Lead to Long-Term Physical Harm, Expert Warn
The debate over mobile phone use in schools is intensifying, especially as new research exposes the alarming physical toll it takes on children. As a result, many schools in England have been taking initiative to ban phones during the school day. But for many young people, the damage may already be done—some of it irreversible. Recent findings from the Royal Society of Medicine’s inaugural Aesthetics Congress revealed a growing concern known as “tech neck,” a condition resulting from prolonged smartphone use. Dr. Rowland Payne, a leading dermatologist, and Zoe Barley, a medical student at King’s College London, highlighted the strain that comes from constantly looking down at a phone. When a person’s head is tilted at a 45-degree angle—the position most phone users adopt—its weight increases from 5kg to a staggering 22kg, comparable to lifting a large pumpkin. Children, in particular, are susceptible to this issue. Dr. Payne warned that tension in the trapezius muscles can spread from the neck to the temples and jaw, leading to severe migraines, joint damage, and even long-term dental problems such as chipped teeth and the need for root canals or implants. The physical consequences don’t stop there. Teachers are increasingly reporting weak core muscles and poor posture in children as young as four, some of whom struggle to sit upright at school due to long hours spent slumped over devices. The rise of “tech neck” is a stark reminder that phone addiction isn’t just a mental health issue. Prolonged mobile phone use can also contribute to physical problems, such as poor muscle development, tension headaches, and even dental damage. These findings should be a wake-up call for parents and educators alike, raising the question: How did we ignore these issues for so long? While phones may be indispensable in the modern world, it’s becoming clear that their overuse poses risks beyond just disrupted sleep or anxiety. Children glued to screens may face impaired cognitive development, lack of physical activity, and even a higher risk of brain tumors from prolonged exposure to phone radiation. The physical and mental costs of unchecked smartphone use among children are becoming impossible to ignore. If schools continue to follow the lead of those banning phones during the school day, it may help curb some of these harmful effects. But for many children, the damage may already be done, and it’s time to seriously rethink how we let technology shape the next generation.
64th Independence Anniversary: FG declares Tuesday public holiday
The Federal Government has declared Tuesday, 1st of October as a public holiday to commemorate the 64th Independence Day Anniversary. On 1 October 1960, Nigeria was granted full independence from Great Britain. Magdalene Ajani, Permanent Secretary Ministry of Interior disclosed this in a statement on behalf of Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo. Mr Tunji-Ojo congratulated Nigerians at home and abroad on the occasion. He praised the patient and hardworking Nigerian men and women, stating that their sacrifices would not be in vain. The minister reiterated the need for Nigerians to reflect on the labour of the heroes’ past and be inspired for the tasks ahead, realizing that a Nigeria of our dreams can only be built when we unite. While wishing Nigerians a Happy Independence Day Anniversary, Mr Tunji-Ojo urged the citizens to continue to be steadfast in nation-building.
