16-year-old boy charged with murder

Makurdi – A 16-year-old boy, (name withheld) on Wednesday appeared before a Makurdi Chief Magistrates’ Court charged with murder.

The prosecution told the court that the accused committed the offence at his friend’s place, where the deceased, Tertsea Ayila also visited to power his mother’s telephone handset.

The prosecution said that the accused without provocation took a locally made gun belonging to the owner of the house, one Paul Asav and shot the 14-year-old Ayila on his head.

The prosecution said that Ayila died, while he was being rushed to the hospital and that the offence contravened Section 222 of the Penal  Code of Benue State, 2004.

When the case came up for mention, no plea was taken as the accused was a juvenile, whose case should be handled at a Juvenile Court.

The Chief Magistrate, Mrs Theresa Wergba, transferred the case to the Juvenile Court for further hearing.

Read More

Fally Ipupa Fights Capital Femi Over Ghanian Actress Nadia Buari

This certainly might not be the best of times for the likes of Capital Femi,an artiste with Kennis Music and international Sukus singer Fally Pupa as both artistes are at daggers drawn over who has more right to love fair skinned and beautiful Ghana actress Nadia Buari. Information from the grapevine has it on good authority that both artistes don’t see eye to eye again as they are involved in personality clash over who should date the talented actress from President Atta Mills country. Only recently friends of Femi and Fally Pupa have gone public over their principal’s love interest in the actress and how the other side is trying to spoil a good love interest that is gradually building up. For now however,only Nadia can authoritatively come out to say who actually owns her heart as the battle between Femi and Fally Pupa gathers momentum. NADIA BUARI CAPITAL+FEMI

Read More

Job Seeker Jailed For Wearing Shoes In Mosque

 

A 32-year old applicant, Ahmed Hassan, has been sentenced to one month imprisonment by an Abuja Senior Magistrates’ Court for wearing shoes into a mosque in Nyanya.

The Senior Magistrate, Mrs. Nkwadimi Buba, however, gave Hassan an option of N2,000 fine.
Earlier, the police prosecutor, Corporal Silas Nanpan, had told the court that the crime was reported to the Nyanya Police Station on November 26 by one Umar Safe of Tipper Garage, Nyanya.

Nanpan said that the convict on November 25 trespassed into the mosque and lay down there with his shoes on, knowing that the act was un-Islamic.

The convict could not give a satisfactory account of his action, he said, adding that the offence of criminal trespass contravened Section 348 of the Penal Code. When the case came up for mention, Hassan pleaded guilty to the charge but begged the court for leniency.

Delivering judgment, Buba sentenced the convict to one month imprisonment with an option of N2,000 fine.

After the judgment, PMNEWS sought reactions of lawyers on the judgment. These are their comments.

Lagos lawyer, Festus Kayamo said it was not right for a magistrate’s court to sentence an accused to imprisonment for wearing shoes inside a mosque.

He described the judgment as ultra vires and not in the powers of the court to do so. He called on the convict to appeal the court’s judgment.

In his own reaction, human rights lawyer, Mohammed Badr, said there is no specific provision in the penal code that criminalizes the wearing of shoes into a mosque. According to him, Section 348 under which the man was convicted dwelt on trespass. “I believe the magistrate delivered her judgment under that section. The man may have been reported to the police for wearing shoes into the mosque but I believe the court sentenced him for trespass and not for wearing shoes into that mosque,” he added.

Another lawyer, Abdulahi Shehu of the Muslim Lawyers Association stated: ”We must distinguish here between the Penal Code and the Criminal Code. While such crimes as wearing shoes into a mosque may be unknown, I believe that the Penal Code may have taken care of such. Don’t forget that the Penal Code operates in the north, so, I am sure that the code may have carefully taken care of that act. I must say, however, that the magistrate must have convicted the man on charges of trespass and not necessarily on wearing of shoes into the court.”

Allen Agbaka, a Lagos-based lawyer said the punishment meted on the convict depends on the law under which he was charged. “In deciding the matter, the law prevailing in the location should also be put into consideration. Since the man is a Muslim, he could be tried under the Sharia Law which is used to try Muslims,” he explained. He added that since the offence was not committed in a public place, the Muslim sharia law should be applied.

“The victim was not compelled to be a Muslim. He knew that going into a mosque, one did not have to wear a shoe. He must be a stubborn man. He should be tried according to the law governing the Muslim faith,” he submitted further.

Mr. Babatunde Awotubo, a lawyer explained that what the court did was to adopt the doctrine of a religion and not necessarily a conviction under the law. He said such things can only happen in a Sharia Court.

“If such a case is decided at a magistrate’s court then such judgment is illegal and unconstitutional. To have sentenced someone for wearing shoes into the mosque is illegal and unconstitutional,” Awotubo opined.

However, Awotubo said if the penal code law in the state where the man was tried was the one applied, “then it is justifiable and right.”

A law scholar, Israel John Onwumerechukwubikemu also described the judgment as unconstitutional.

“Nigerian constitution does not select any religion, be it Christianity or Islam. Because of this, it is illegal to sentence to jail someone who entered a mosque wearing a shoe.

“But if such a person is a Muslim, he could be judged according to his religion or Sharia Law. But if he is not a Muslim, he should not be treated as such because there is no provision in the constitution barring anyone not to wear shoes before entering a mosque. If the convict is not a muslim, he should be set free,” he submitted.

Commenting on the judgment, Lagos State Chairman, Campaign for the Defence of Human Rights, CDHR, Comrade Isiak Buna said it is not permissible in Islam for someone to enter a mosque wearing a shoe.

Source: PM NEWS

Read More

Comedy Photo Of The Week..

Look at what Nigeria government and blackberry has turn this beautiful gurl to...Carrying a generator on her head to charge her BB ......

Read More

Al-Qaeda wants to kidnap Westerners in Nigeria

The global terrorist group, Al-Qaeda, is planning a “wave of abductions” of Westerners in the Sahel, the Algerian secret service agency has said.

According to a report in Algeria’s most widely read newspaper, el-Khabar, the country’s secret service, the Department of Investigation and Security, has informed Algeria’s neighbours of the terrorist plans.

The Sahel region comprises Senegal, Mauritania, Mali, Burkina Faso, Algeria, Niger, Nigeria, Chad, Sudan, Ethiopia and Eritrea.


The secret agency, the newspaper reports, says the abductions are slated to be carried out by Mauritanian terrorists.

Algeria is home to the Al Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb, a group that has been identified by security agencies as providing both logistics and training to the violent Islamic sect in the North-East, Boko Haram.

In a recent interview, a Boko Haram leader had admitted the link between the sect and Mauritania, saying that several of its bomb experts and foot soldiers received training in the country.  The leader had also said that some members of the group had just returned from Mauritania to launch new terrorist attacks.

Recently, the Algerian Deputy Foreign Minister, Abdelkader Messahel, had told journalists that his country had established a link between Boko Haram and the AIQM.

“We have no doubts that coordination exists between Boko Haram and al Qaeda. The way both groups operate and intelligence reports show that there is cooperation,” Messahel said.
Our correspondent reports that Western governments and intelligence agencies place a great premium on warnings from the Algerian intelligence agency because the North African country has one of the most effective counter-terrorism systems in the Sahel region.

Meanwhile, the Joint Task Force in charge of security in the restive Niger Delta has warned groups of aggrieved ex-militants against plans to breach the peace in the region.

Our correspondent reports that the Niger Delta is fast becoming a haven for new militant groups formed by ex-militants protesting their non-inclusion in the Federal Government’s post-amnesty rehabilitation programme.

Some of the new groups have threatened to launch a new campaign of pipeline sabotage and bombing of oil installations if government does not attend to their demands.

The JTF said on Tuesday that the threats of the ex-militants were becoming a source of worry, especially with the emergence of a new group of ex-militants under the name Third Phase Amnesty.

Another group which identified itself as 2nd Batch Extension Programme has also emerged in the region, vowing to disrupt the peace.

pokesperson for the JTF, Lt. Col. Timothy Anthinga, on Tuesday warned the ex-militants to desist from plans to breach the peace in the region.

Antingha said, “The JTF will not be drawn into any discussion on the merit or demerit of the inclusion or exclusion of the protesting agitators from the rehabilitation process. The aspect of inclusion in the amnesty programme is within the province of the Amnesty Committee.

“However, the JTF wishes to advise the so-called 2nd or 3rd phase ex-militants to seek peaceful ways of achieving their objectives because the threat of violence being employed in this regard will most certainly not end in their favour.”

The aggrieved former fighters had on many occasions accused the Amnesty Office, headed by the Special Adviser to President Goodluck Jonathan on Niger Delta Matters, Mr. Kingsley Kuku, of adopting a divide-and-rule approach in handling the programme.

Our correspondent learnt that the emergence of the latest group had unsettled security agencies in the region, especially the JTF, codenamed Operation Restore Hope, which has the mandate to forestall the breach of the peace in the area.

The group, numbering over 5,000, had on Saturday in Bomadi Local Government Area of Delta State issued a seven-day ultimatum to the government.

The ex-militants who were said to have been drawn from all the states in the region threatened to launch a fresh onslaught against oil installations if the government continued to exclude them from the amnesty project.

The group, at the town hall meeting which held in Esena Ebe School Hall, Bomadi, had concluded that the Federal Government was delaying their inclusion in the second batch.

The National Chairman of the group, ‘General’ Julius Joseph, in a statement by the group after the meeting, claimed that the government excluded them after collecting 70,000 arms and ammunition from members of the group.

He said the delay by the government to include them in the post-amnesty programme was dangerous as they had concluded plans to resume pipeline sabotage and illegal oil bunkering in the creeks.

“If our genuine processes discussed were adopted, all ex-militant groups could have been trained and absorbed by various companies, but because the government is insensitive to our plights, the youths are thinking of going back to the creeks,” Joseph said.

Source: The punch

Read More

3 dead, 100 injured as Delta community, Shell clash over GMoU

ABOUT three persons are feared dead and 100 others, including women and children, injured in a stampede, Tuesday, at Uzere in Isoko South Local Government Area of Delta, when soldiers and mobile policemen fired tear gas on protesters at a Shell Petroleum Development Company, SPDC, flow station in the area.

Angered by the action of the soldiers and policemen, the protesters burnt a Mercedes benz car and two Hilux vehicles provided for the security agents by the oil company.

Angry villagers also razed their traditional ruler’s palace, his guest house and wife’s store. They alleged that some leaders of the community were conspiring with the oil company against them.
At the time the community youths forced their way into the company, the security agents had become jittery over the repercussion of their action and fled.

Protest: Uzere youths protesting at Shell Petroleum Development Company facility in

Divisional Police Officer, DPO, for Isoko South, Chief Superintendent Chris Forgbara, who led a team of policemen to quell the disturbance was also affected by the tear-gas from the security agents, who also shot indiscriminately into the air.

We gathered that the community had expressed misgivings that SPDC, which started operations in the area since 1958, had not signed a Global Memorandum of Understanding, GMOU, and, therefore, mobilised for a peaceful protest.

The protesters, numbering about 5,000, and led by members of the oil and gas committee in Uzere community, Messrs Okegbe Sam, Meshack Uge and Godspower Aluya, demanded that the barricade to the flow station be dismantled as they wanted to get to the gate and present their demands to the company.

It was alleged that the security agents insisted that they should disperse immediately and fired canisters of tear-gas into the air to scare them away. With gunshots also renting the air, the villagers ran helter-skelter, sustaining injuries in the process. The scale of the injury sustained by the protesters allegedly infuriated the entire community.

Over 500 motorcyclists, popularly known as Okada, also massed together and rode furiously, daring anybody to come out and attack them.

Shell’s ‘crimes’

In a statement issued on the state of affairs between Shell and its host communities in Uzere kingdom, President-General of the community, Chief Emeakpo Owhe, said: “It is a known fact that Uzere land has been blessed with oil and gas. It is also a known fact that Shell has exploited this natural resources on our fatherland for the past 52 years (since 1958).”

He said the company did not enter into any agreement with the people, adding, “consequent upon the above, we wrote Shell since February 2011 to come to Uzere to discus and firm up the GMoU (Global Memorandum of Understanding) with Uzere communities.

“In October, we reminded Shell on the imperative of putting a framework in place for the GMoU so that we can legally know the basics for our relationship/partnering and cooperation with SPDC.

“The only hospital Shell managed to build in Uzere is not functional because it refused to fund the health insurance scheme that will enable the hospital take-off properly. SPDC funded a similar Obio Cottage hospital in River State at N24 million. Why have they refused to fund the Uzere Cottage Hospital?

“The ultimatum given to Shell on the issue of GMoU with Uzere kingdom expired months ago, but up till now Shell has not shown any interest to have a GMoU with Uzere kingdom, its host.

“We have also written to the Delta State Government on the refusal by Shell to sign the GMoU. The Uzere community has, therefore, decided that if SPDC still wants to operate in Uzere land, it should come and sign a GMOU with Uzere before carrying out further oil activities with effect from today (yesterday).”

Shell responds

Shell Media Officer in Warri, Mr. Joseph Obari told Vanguard: “We have confirmed that a group of youths from Uzere community this morning (Tuesday) invaded SPDC’s Uzere Flow Station and shut it down. They attacked workers and burnt two security vehicles.”

According to him, the youths were reportedly demanding the signing of a GMoU with the community.

He added: “SPDC has phased the implemen-tation of its highly successful GMoU model for sustainable develop-ment. Apart from two GMoUs tied to specific projects, the programme is already being implemented in three clusters in Delta State.

“We are working with the Delta State government to resolve the situation.”

Read More

It’s 14 years jail term for homosexual marriages

THE Senate, yesterday, passed the Same Sex Marriage bill prohibiting all marriages between man and man and between woman and woman.

The bill sponsored by Senator Magnus Abe, PDP, Rivers, prescribes 14 years jail term for anybody convicted of contracting marriage between same sex.

It also prescribed 10 years for anybody convicted of aiding and abetting the contraction of same sex marriage in Nigeria and also nullifies certificate of same sex marriage contracted outside the shores of Nigeria. The new law also kicked against the operation of gay clubs in Nigeria as it provides for 10 years jail term without option of fine for anybody guilty of operating gay club within the country.

Senate President, David Mark, in his remark after the passage of the law stressed that the practice of same sex marriage violates Nigeria’s traditions and customs.

He said the Senate will not be cowed into passing laws that go against the belief of the country by western countries that threatened to stop aids to Nigeria on account of the Senate outlawing homosexuals and lesbianism in Nigeria.

Mark said: “If there is any country that wants to stop giving us aid because we want to pass the bill on same sex, that country can go ahead. We are a sovereign nation and we have the rights to decide for ourselves because no country can interfere in the way we run our country. Same sex marriage is against our own culture and tradition and against our beliefs.”

Section 3 of the bill reads: “Only marriage contracted between a man and a woman either under Islamic law, Customary law or Marriage Act is recognized as valid in Nigeria.”

Registration of gay clubs

Section 4 (1) which kicks against gay clubs reads: “The registration of gay clubs, societies and organizations; their sustenance, processions and meetings are hereby prohibited. (2) The public show of same sex amorous relationship directly or indirectly is hereby prohibited.”

Section 1 (2) and (3) reads: “A marriage contract or civil union entered into between persons of same sex is invalid and shall not be recognized as entitled to the benefits of a valid marriage. (3) A marriage contract or civil union entered into between persons of same sex by virtue of a certificate issued by a foreign country shall be void in Nigeria, and any benefits accruing there from by virtue of certificate shall not be enforced by any court in Nigeria.”

The law also banned solemnization of same sex marriage in churches and mosques in Nigeria. Section 2 (1) of the bill provides: “Marriage or civil union entered into between persons of same sex by virtue of a certificate issued by a foreign country shall be void in Nigeria and any benefits accruing there from by virtue of the certificate shall not be enforced.”

Section 5 (1)(2)(3) which stipulates the penalties reads: “Persons who entered into same sex marriage contract or civil union commit an offence and are each liable on conviction to a term of 10 years imprisonment.

“(2) Any person who registers, operate or participates in gay clubs, societies and organization or directly or indirectly make public show of same amorous relationship in Nigeria commits an offence and shall each be liable on conviction to a term of 10 years imprisonment.

“(3)Any person or group or persons that witness, abet and aids the solemnization of a same sex marriage or civil sustenance of gay clubs, societies, organization, process of meeting in Nigeria commits an offence and shall be liable to conviction to a term of 10 years imprisonment.”

Read More

I did not marry Aki because of his money or fame - Nneoma Ikedieze

 

The Mass Communication graduate of Enugu State University spoke briefly to Uche Olehi of  Encomium mag during her wedding ceremony last weekend. Excerpts: 

 

How did you two meet? 

Nneoma: We met in Lagos. We worked in a production together. I was a costumier. I have always been seeing him, I just like his lifestyle. So we became friends and from there the journey began. 

 

How did you know he was your man? 

Nneoma: I am not a friend keeping type, but when I meet my friend, I know. We have been friends and I think I saw what I like in a man in him.  
What are the qualities you saw in him?
Nneoma: Chinedu is very intelligent and smart.
 

What was your parents reaction when you told them you are getting married to Aki?
Nneoma: They were not surprised. My dad was like 'waoo, you go ahead if he is your choice.
 

Would you say you it is a natural love you have for Chinedu?
Nneoma: Yes. I just love him naturally.
 

What do you really want changed in Chinedu?
Nneoma: Nothing to be changed. He is okay for me.
 

Many people believe you are going for his money and celebrity status?
Nneoma: That is cheap talk. They can say whatever they want to say. I married Chinedu Ikedieze, I did not marry Aki.

 

Sources: Linda ikeji

Read More

Dr Conrad Murray Sentenced To Four Years In Prisonment For Killing Michael Jackson

 

 

Dr Conrad Murray was yesterday evening November 29th jailed for four years for involuntary manslaughter of Michael Jackson. The sentence will be served in the Los Angeles County jail. 

This will forever stain the image of this young man because the Jackson family and fans will always refer him as the killer of  Michael Jackson..

Read More

Liverpool kick Chelsea Out Of Carling Cup As Maxi Rodriguez and Martin Kelly convert Craig Bellamy assists to send Kenny Dalglish’s side to semifinals

Liverpool is through to the Carling Cup semifinals after beating Chelsea 2-0 at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday.
Maxi Rodriguez and Martin Kelly were the scorers, while Craig Bellamy picked up both assists after an emotional start to the game.

A minute's applause was held before the game to honor Wales manager Gary Speed after his tragic passing on Sunday. Welsh star Bellamy had been left out of the Liverpool team against Swansea on compassionate grounds and looked visibly shaken as everyone paid their respects.

Liverpool boss Kenny Dalglish had hinted before the game that fans would be wasting their time turning up to the game and made seven changes from the draw with Manchester City, Andy Carroll replacing Luis Suarez up front.

Andre Villas-Boas also made significant changes to his team, nine in total. Fernando Torres started against his former club alongside Romelu Lukaku, only David Luiz was retained from the defensive unit that had shut out Wolves on Saturday.

Chelsea dominated the early possession as it looked to build pressure on the Reds’ defense and threatened as early as the third minute.

Luiz set off on a typically buccaneering run which took him into the Liverpool penalty area. Sebastian Coates stuck out a leg to challenge Luiz and brought the Brazilian down without taking the ball but Phil Dowd booked the Chelsea man for simulation as he seemed to already be on his way to the ground before contact was made.

Liverpool was looking to utilize Carroll’s height through long balls and crosses and the former Newcastle man had a chance to give the Reds the lead but snatched an effort wide after Chelsea failed to clear Henderson’s corner.

The Reds were then presented with a glorious chance to score in the 21st minute when Alex handled Jose Enrique’s left-wing cross, conceding a penalty. Phil Dowd’s decision was not immediate but was ultimately correct.

Carroll stepped up to take the spot kick but his effort was woefully poor and Ross Turnbull saved comfortably down to his right. Liverpool has now missed three out of four penalties this season.

The miss seemed to spark both sides into life. Chelsea broke down the other end as Malouda and Lukaku combined well and only a strong last-ditch tackle from Coates stopped the Belgian youngster from getting through on Pepe Reina’s goal.

Bellamy was central to Liverpool’s attacks and his clever through ball was just too long for the on-rushing Spearing and the otherwise quiet Lampard blazed a 25-yard effort well over the crossbar.

The game then settled again to a familiar pattern of Chelsea methodically looking to play through Liverpool and Dalglish’s men using a higher tempo to counterattack. Martin Kelly and Jose Enrique were pushing forward well from fullback and the Spaniard’s cross shot was inches from finding Carroll.

Josh McEachran had looked tidy on the ball through the first period but was substituted after forty minutes due to an injury picked up in a challenge with Spearing.

Chelsea ended the half well, Lukaku glanced a header wide following a good run and cross from Bosingwa but neither side had been able to strike a decisive blow and the teams went in at half-time with the game scoreless.

Chelsea began the second half much better with a higher tempo and better attacking intent, Romeu hitting a shot that deflected wide off Frank Lampard.

Chelsea’s attacking left gaps at the back however which suited Liverpool’s counterattacking approach but wasteful passing and shooting by Bellamy let them down on seperate occasions.

Chelsea then came closest to breaking the deadlock. Coates picked up a booking after checking Torres’ run and from Lampard’s free kick Malouda touched the ball onto the crossbar and Luiz’s follow-up header was nudged away on the goalline for a corner.

Just as Chelsea was looking menacing it was Liverpool which took the lead in the 58th with another counter. Henderson drove through midfield and played a perfect through ball for Bellamy, who sprinted into the box and squared for Rodriguez. He tapped the ball in from six yards to score his second goal at Stamford Bridge in nine days.

The traveling fans were in fine voice and they were cheering again just five minutes later as Bellamy’s free kick from the left found Kelly unmarked and the youngster nodded in his first goal for Liverpool.

Chelsea instantly responded, sending Juan Mata and Nicolas Anelka on for Malouda and Lukaku.

Liverpool was brimming with confidence. Bellamy tried an effort from fully 40 yards which failed to trouble Turnbull but Kenny Dalglish was dealt a blow with 20 minutes remaining as Lucas was substituted through injury. Charlie Adam replaced him.

Chelsea began to press for a way back into the game and a spell of good possession was worked to Ryan Bertrand. His cross was met by Torres but his header looped up into Reina’s arms.
Anelka also had a chance in the box but he was closed down by the Spanish stopper and the chance eventually petered out.

A corner from the left was then met by Torres whose header was more forceful than his previous effort but well saved again by Reina.

Dirk Kuyt was brought on for Bellamy with 10 minutes of normal time remaining, the Welshman being given a well-earned standing ovation after a dynamic performance with another vocal tribute to Speed being paid on Bellamy's withdrawal.

Andy Carroll's clumsy challenge gave Alex and opportunity with a 30-yard free kick, but his effort was skewed badly wide as time looked to be running out for Chelsea.

And indeed the Blues failed to create a meaningful effort on goal as Dalglish extended his unbeaten run against Chelsea as Liverpool manager. His counterpart Andre Villas-Boas saw more pressure dumped on his shoulders as Chelsea's slump continues.

Read More

Femi Kuti Impregnates Another Dancer

Afrobeat maestro Femi Kuti is sure taking after his father’s footsteps – he’s already worked his way to being crowned king of the musical genre his father founded. And for some time now, he’s thrown caution aside as he adopts the unconventional romance and baby making lifestyle of his late father Fela Anikulapo-Kuti. The junior Kuti, who has confessed being in a string of relationships, is now believed to be expecting his sixth child from his latest lover Antonia.

Sources close to the Kutis say Tonia (as she is fondly called) who is one of Femi’s Positive Force Band dancers, is ‘very heavy’ and will soon put to bed. The ‘couple’ according to tabloid reports have been seen together one too many times at social functions (including Mrs Sonia Ransome-Kuti‘s burial back in April).

A source close to the Kuti family says Tonia pays occasional visits to the Kutis’ residence in Akute, Ogun State.

Femi Kuti is currently in court with his ex-wife Funke over their pending divorce.
He told us in October 2010 in an exclusive interview ‘I have girlfriends and they know themselves…I got married once and I knew I was wrong. I don’t believe in marriage‘

An attempt to reach the activist-musician who we hear just rounded up his Europe tour and is back in the country proved abortive; and text messages sent to his sister Yeni kuti were not immediately replied. Our reporter visited the New Afrika Shrine on Thursday November 24, but none of the managers on duty was willing to comment.

The expected sixth child follows the birth of Kuti’s fifth child Tejumoluwa, from another dancer Bose Ajila on Tuesday, March 15, 2011.

The other five Femi Kuti children are Lade, Ayomide, Tunmise and his first son Morinmade fondly called Made.

Read More

‘Help!’, Former Miss Nigeria Cries Out

 

Helen Anyamelune - Miss Nigeria 1958

53 years ago, a young lady emerged the second ever winner of the Miss Nigeria beauty pageant and the world seemed to be at her feet as she was feted wherever she went within the country and outside. Cameras flashed, she was the toast of many gatherings and was courted by the high and mighty in the society.

The future for the young beauty queen must have appeared bright, rosy and blissful.

Fast-forward to 2011 and Helen Anyamelune, at 73, is only a shadow of her former self. Penniless, stricken with a debilitating illness that has confined her to a wheel chair, and virtually forsaken, with not a sight of the crowd that adored her around, the former beauty queen is in a desperate situation that requires urgent attention.

Speaking with a close relative who has been providing care for the lady, and who confirmed initial reports about her plight, he stated that she has not received any assistance to ameliorate her situation except that provided by the former governor of Delta State, Chief James Ibori.

He further pleaded with public-spirited individuals to come to her aid as she has in the past been solely responsible for all her medical expenses. He felt it was a thing of shame that a hero who put the country in the spotlight with her victory at the pageant should be abandoned at a time when she needed to age gracefully and in good health.

All those interested in helping the cause of the former beauty queen can contact her through; Stephen on 08038332869 or Gloria on 08062291890

Read More

N45m Rolls Royce Phantom Not Duncan Mighty’s!

Ducan Mighty says he did NOT buy the car...

Contrary to widely broadcast reports that popular singer and self-acclaimed ‘Port Harcourt 1st son‘, Duncan Okechukwu Mighty recently bought a Rolls Royce Phantom, running into about N45M (forty five million Naira), Nigerian Entertainment Today has been reliably informed, by multiple sources close to the singer, that he did NOT buy the said luxurious vehicle.

Further investigations revealed that the car was a prop, given by one of the singer’s sponsors, for use in a recent musical video.

We’re told the said sponsor is Chris Aire, even though we could not immediately establish the identity of the owner of the Rolls Royce Phantom.

Several blogs had quoted unnamed sources, earlier this month, announcing Mighty had bought a Rolls Royce – with pictures of him posing beside the car, with customised number plate ‘PH 1st Son‘. A spokesperson later confirmed to our reporters that he had indeed bought the car.

But, perhaps following the attention the reports generated, and possible complaints from the owner of the car, Mighty, we’re told, was forced to issue incoherent disclaimers, saying he never bought the Rolls Royce.

No official statements were issued, and repeated efforts by Naijabiff to reach the entertainer, his management and publicist on the need to properly set the records straight met brick walls.

For days, several calls placed as well as text messages sent were neither answered nor returned by the artiste and his reps.

However, under increasing pressure amidst wild speculation and the frenzy the news had generated in the media, the Duncan Mighty camp through its publicist in a phone conversation with Naijabiff stated that a press conference slated for some time in December will address this and other issues. ‘I can answer any question you have on any other matter, but will not comment on this particular issue. What I can tell you is that we will address this matter in a press conference around the first week of December where we will also be talking about other things we have lined up‘, the publicist, named Bless, told us.

A source who is close to and works with the singer however revealed under the assurance of anonymity, that the car was definitely not bought by the singer but was only given to him ‘to flaunt with’ in his upcoming video for the smash hit song, ‘Port Harcourt Son’, which had some scenes shot in Abuja.

Read More

Thanksgiving Service To Mark President Goodluck Jonathan’s 54th Birthday Today Sunday At The Aso Rock Villa Chapel In The State House, Abuja

PRESIDENT GOODLUCK JONATHAN, HIS WIFE PATIENCE, HIS MOTHER, MADAM EUNICE AND HIS CHILDREN CUTTING THE CAKE TO MARK HIS BIRTHDAY

RESIDENT GOODLUCK JONATHAN AND HIS WIFE PATIENCE DURING THE THANKSGIVING SERVICE.

PRESIDENT GOODLUCK JONATHAN WITH HIS WIFE, PATIENCE AND HIS MOTHER, MADAM EUNICE DURING THE THANKSGIVING.

FROM LEFT, PRESIDENT GOODLUCK JONATHAN, HIS WIFE PATIENCE, HIS MOTHER, MADAM EUNICE, CHIEF OF STAFF TO THE PRESIDENT, CHIEF MIKE OGHIADOME, HON. NDIDU ELUMELU AND OTHERS DURING THE SERVICE.

REV. OBIOMA ONWUZURUMBA, CHAPLAIN, ASO ROCK VILLA CHAPEL WITH PRESIDENT GOODLUCK JONATHAN, HIS WIFE, PATIENCE AND HIS MOTHER, EUNICE

Read More

80-Year-Old Mother Of The Deputy Leader Of Rivers State House Of Assembly Kipnapped

Kidnappers of Madam Margaret, the 80-year old mother of the Deputy Leader of Rivers State House of Assembly, Nname Robinson Ewor, have insisted on getting N20 million as ransom.

 We learnt that the abductors, who stormed the old woman’s home in Ahoada East Local Government Area of the state yesterday, have contacted the lawmaker insisting on N20 million if he wanted he would like to see his mother again alive.

But he is in quandary as to how he would get that amount of money to pay as ransom.

Ewor, who represents Ahoada East Constituency 1 in the state House of Assembly, wondered why criminals should subject his frail 80-year old mother to such traumatic experience and called on the abductors to have sympathy on the old woman and set her free.

Meanwhile, it was learnt this morning that law enforcement agencies have been alerted and are on the trail of the kidnappers.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Read More

Late Odumegwu Ojukwu’s body to tour 4 countries before burial

 

Late former Biafran Leader, Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu-Ojukwu's body will be flown to three African countries and one Caribbean country before the final burial in his Nnewi country home, according to his will.

Anambra State Governor, Mr. Peter Obi, said yesterday in Awka that Odumegwu-Ojukwu listed where he wanted his body to be taken to before his burial. The countries are nations that supported the Biafran struggle and recognised Biafra as an independent state. They are Gabon, Tanzania, Ivory Coast and Haiti.

Read More

Massive Crackdown On Okada Riders; Over 200 Arrested In Lagos; More Roads Banned For Riders

 

The Lagos State Government has begun a massive clampdown on commercial motorcyclists, a.k.a. Okada riders with the arrest of over 200 yesterday.

The government, after due consultation with the relevant Okada riders’ associations gave the riders a period of grace which expired by midnight on Sunday. The clampdown began yesterday in all the affected zones.

CAUGHT IN THE ACT… A commercial motorcycle (Okada) operator arrested for driving against traffic on Mile 2 - Badagry road by the enforcement team of the Governor of Lagos State, recently

The clampdown is coming on the heels of orders by Governor Babatunde Raji Fashola to the state Commissioner for Transportation, Mr. Kayode Opeifa, to ensure that Okada riders obey the traffic laws of the state.

Opeifa declared last Thursday that ”government can no longer watch and allow Okada riders break the laws of the state with impunity.”

In the new regulations guiding the operations of okada riders in the state, Okada riders are not allowed to operate without a valid rider’s licence; a standard crash helmet with full head protection; carry more than one passenger; carry pregnant women, school children and load and drive against traffic. They have also been banned from operating beyond 10 p.m. in all parts of the state except Victoria Island and Ikoyi, Ikeja GRA where they were restricted from operating beyond 8 p.m.

Okada riders have also been banned from plying the expressway, bridges, Awolowo Way, Bank Anthony Way and some other roads in the Lagos metropolis.  The police, officials of the Lagos State Traffic
Management Authority, LASTMA and other security agencies have been directed to arrest any Okada operator found to have violated the law.

General Manager, LASTMA, Engineer Babatunde Edu confirmed that aggressive enforcement of the law had begun and that over 200 Okada riders had been arrested so far.

He lamented that several criminal activities were being perpetrated through the use of Okada by men of the underworld.

Governor Fashola, who was bitter about the menace posed by Okada riders, vowed that the enforcement would be total. To show his seriousness, he personally led a team of officials to arrest five Okada riders who drove against the traffic in Apapa area of the state last week.  Fashola disclosed that a new policy was in the offing to deal decisively with the problems posed by Okada riders.

“As I have said to all those who cared to listen, if Okada is a problem to you, stop using it; because it is a business and if you don’t patronize it, it will leave you alone,” he stated.

The governor arrested more Okada riders driving against the traffic on Sunday in Badagry during his tour of ongoing projects in the state.


3“You will see my next line of action in the fullness of time, but I think ultimately Lagosians must decide whether or not they want Okada.

“In the meantime, they have to comply with our rules and if they don’t, they will have the law enforcement agencies to contend with. We will not allow this incessant and sheer disregard for our laws, those who cannot comply should leave our state.”

Rising from the state Security Council meeting last week, the Deputy Commissioner of Police (Operations), Mr. Tunde Sobulo disclosed that a new policy on commercial motorcycle is on the way to deal with errant riders who still disobey government rules and regulations on the operation of commercial motorcycles (Okada) on the state’s roads.

According to him, “Okada riders are still giving us problems. They are still riding against the traffic and carrying two to three passengers and without helmet. Majority of the culprits are those that are not members of the motorcyclists’ unions. There is nothing to identify them with. But I believe there is going to be a policy soon and when it is out we will know how to deal with them.”

Read More

Prostitutes Rape Pastors In Delta state

	Two men of God were over the weekend allegedly lured to patronise harlots at a popular brothel at Cable Point, Asaba, the Delta State capital, when they went there to preach to the ladies of easy virtue.   It was learnt that the pastors from a very popular church along Ibusa Road in the state had visited the area to convert and win over the sex workers to their church, but they were themselves seduced by the prostitutes who had sex with them and later burnt their Bibles and clothes. Sources said the men of God (their names withheld) had resolved in one of their meetings to win many converts, especially the prostitutes who stay in brothels, in order for them to grow their church’s membership. Cable Point is a notorious stop-over for hoodlums and has the largest number of brothels and casinos in the south-south region.   An eyewitness said that preachers had gained audience with the harlots but after a period of time they were disoriented by the sudden display of breasts and other revealing body parts which reportedly hypnotized the preachers. Their hosts then took them into their rooms where they were said to have performed ‘quickies.’   It was later learnt that fight broke out when the evangelists regained their composure and insisted on not paying the harlots’ bills, arguing that that was not their original mission. During the scuffle, they ladies reportedly burnt the pastors’ Bibles and clothes...... But who is to be blamed,the prostitutes or the pastors??

Read More

Photo of the week

                                        Tuface idibia

Read More

Gov.Uduaghan to give ailing veteran actor Enebeli Elebuwa N3Million for treatment

 

  

Delta State Governor, Emmanuel Uduaghan, has pledged the sum of N3million to support veteran actor, Enebeli Elebuwa, who has been down with stroke for the past two months.

 National President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), Segun Arinze, confirmed the development to PM News adding that popular actor, Richard Mofe-Damijo, who is also the Commissioner for Tourism in Delta State, has donated N200,000 for the welfare of the ailing Elebuwa.

 It was gathered that t the governor of Lagos State, Babatunde Raji Fashola, after reading a report about the ailing Elebuwa last week, also sent a medical team to take care of the actor.

 “On behalf of AGN, we thank Governors Uduaghan and Fashola, RMD and well spirited Nigerians who have been sending goodwill messages,” Arinze said.

 Actor enebeli Elebuwa, who cannot walk right now has been moved to St. Tropez Hospital, Surulere, Lagos where he is currently receiving treatment.

Read More

Funeral Arrangements for The guardian publisher,Dr. Alex Ibru announced

    Funeral arrangements for Dr. Alex Uruemu Ibru, Founder, Chairman and Publisher of The Guardian Newspapers Limited, who died on Sunday, November 20, in Lagos, has been announced by the Ibru family.

  In a statement by Olorogun Oskar Ibru on behalf of the Ibru family, the funeral events will hold in Lagos State and Delta State.The events will begin with a Service of Songs on Wednesday, December 14, in Lagos.

      This will be followed on Thursday by a Commendation Service. Events in Lagos will be rounded off on same day with a lying-in-state at Rutam House, headquarters of Guardian Newspapers Limited, from where the body will depart for the airport en-route Agbarha-Otor in Delta State.

The programme continues on Friday with a Service of Songs at the Ibru Centre, Agbarha-Otor.On Saturday, December 17, there will be a lying-in-state at the Ibru Centre, followed by the funeral at the All Saints Cathedral, Ughelli. Interment at the Ibru Centre follows immediately after.The funeral programme will come to an end on Sunday, December 18, with an Outing Service at the All Saints Cathedral, Ughelli.

Read More

2011 Edition of Star Mega Jam cancelled

  The organizers of the  star mega Jam have cancelled 2011 edition .

The annual event sponsored by the largest brewing company in Nigeria, Nigerian breweries has been cancelled due to some logistics challenges that could not be overcome.

The Nigerian breweries corporate affairs adviser,Yusuf Egeni  released a statement that reads;

The annual Music concert,star mega jam will not take place this year , The company regrets all inconveniences this will cause the fans who have been eagerly awaiting this year's edition of star mega jam

    Star mega Jam started in 2000 and it has seen so many international stars like r.kelly , usher ,Ja rule, Akon and many others perform.

Read More

Photos of Tuface Idibia performing in Malaysia

Tuface performing at Asam award, and dinner presentation in Malaysia over the weekend. Continue to see more photos

 

Read More

Darey wins big at the Nigerian Music video awards 2011 - Complete winners list

The Nigerian Music video awards took place on sunday night at the Eko hotels& suites , Darey tops the winners list by walking away with two gongs for best R & B and best use of costume . Performers at the award ceremony include wizkid, kennis music all stars, Vector,Harrisong, ahsley stephanie,JJC and Dipp .

Full winners list

Best R&B Video- Darey: The Way U Are.

Best Mainstream HipHop Video -Vector: Get Down

Best Highlife Video – Jodie: – Kuchi Kuchi

Best contemporary Video – M. ‎I – Undisputed Champion

Best Reggae/Dancehall Video- Tipsy: Ching Chong

Best gospel Video- KSB: Mo ti goke

Best use of choreography  – T.I.V:  komole

Best use of costumes  -Darey: Ba ni Kidi

Best softrock/Alternative - Uti-Once in a lifetime

Best use of cinematography – No Dash

Best Editor – No Dash

Best Producer – Zamah

Best director  – DJ Tee

Best use of effect – Dasage

Best video of the year – Jodie

Best Producer-Zamar Entertainment

Best Indigenous concept-W4 -Control

Best Afropop video-Goldie-Don't touch my body

Most promising Director-Tokah

Read More

Few months after marriage Mercy Johnson goes blind...

That’s what News of the people is reporting. Here is the full story. Sultry actress Mercy Johnson is no doubt a woman that cannot be toyed with in the Nollywood when the names of who is who in the Nigerian movie industry or even in the world for that matter are mentioned. This is based on the agility she applies to her craft to dish out what she knows how to do best,which has untimately made her a celebrity to reckon with,but that is not the story for today.The one now is very disheartening if not unpalatable. Not too long ago,precisely August 28 2011,the actress was in the news,putting an end to a conflicting story which emanated at a scene on the he above mentioned date.But this time,it might definitely not be the best of time for the Kogi State born diva,Mercy Johnson as the news you are about to read may sound bizarre. Undoubtedly,Mercy Johnson is one of the best actresses in Nigeria who has carved a nitche for herself before her much publicized marriage to Edo-born prince,Odi,which might not even confuse one whenever she is being link to several scandals. According to the information,Mercy Johnson was said to have engaged in a combat on a movie location in Asaba Delta State,with a colleague whose name has not been revealed to us.The brawl,we gathered,made her to lose one of her eye balls in the ensuing brouhaha. Information from other sources however claimed that ever since the unfortunate incident,newly wedded Mercy Johnson has found herself pitiable in the unbelievable situation,as her family members have been running helter-skelter to ensure a surgical operation for her in London,so that the eye can at least return to a manageable state as the damage done to the right eye is very gory. On the heels of this,we placed repeated and anxious calls to Mercy to know the truth of the matter before going to press,but our efforts proved abortive as her phone kept ringing without response. But before the temper of you lovers of Mercy begin to palpitate,let’s quickly tell you that the flick we are referring to was written by Micheal Jaja,continuity by Prince Apex,costuming by Chioma Okafor,props/set by David Aginwa(Ghana) make-up by Gabazzini,managed by Boniface Ogbonnaya,produced by Magic Movies,and finally directed by Micheal Jaja. What a great combination of talented hands to give out such a great piece of work. For the title,watchout.......

Read More

Collapsed Building at Oba Akran Ikeja Lagos

A building located at 114 Oba Akran Road in Ikeja, yesterday morning collapsed without much warning. The building, which was a cold room, owned by Hano Industry, began to shake a few minutes before it collapsed. Thankfully there only a few people in the building at the time of the incident and they all managed to escape unhurt.

Read More

Livingspring Pastor Femi Emmanuel's 1st daughter dies at 27

Late Esther Emmanuel

Presiding pastor of one of the fastest growing pentecostal churches in Nigeria, pastor Femi Emmanuel of Livingspring Chapel International Church, is bereaved. He lost his first daughter, Esther Emmanuel on November 20th 2011. 

Until her death, she worked at the Murtala Mohammed Airport as a staff of British Airways. The cause of her death is sketchy, but according to the story being passed around by her colleagues, Esther was on night duty on the day she died, she tripped and fell in the office during the night and when help couldn't get to her on time...she died! Esther was just 27.

The young, vibrant and kindhearted Esther, has since been buried. May her soul rest in peace...amen

Sources: Linda ikeji

Read More

Video: 2face Idibia Appears on BBC London News

Baba Has really Gone far , he was recently in London for the concert he just finished performing. BBC News used the priviledge to Inter view Him based on African music and how it has affected the world. The city of London in General, with the likes of other Great Artistes. It’s a short Video tho, Watch and Tell a friend to watch _ Jaguda.com

Read More

Tonto Dikeh to host 100 Nigerian children in December

The actress will be hosting 100 Nigerian Children from different schools in Lagos who come on top position in their Academics.

Some few days back, Nollywood Actress Tonto Dikeh joined the league of actors/actresses who have given a music career a shot where the collaboration with Producer/Artist Kas Fi Mi Le was released. She featured on Kas' latest single 'Iyawo wind'. This time around its not about Music as she is giving back to the society. 

The Sultry Actress Tonto Dike will be hosting 100 Nigerian Children from different schools in Lagos who come first in their academics.

The event will be taking place on Saturday 2nd December, 2011 and the Venue is TROY Event Centre, Ogba, Lagos State. She will give out gifts to the children and also inspire them, we gather.

Read More