END-OF-YEAR CONTROVERIES: Nollywood, NFC

A cold war may well be on between the Nigerian Film Corporation,NFC, and practitioners in the film industry following a bill currently in the House of Representatives seeking to transform the former into the Nigerian Film Commission.

This is coming shortly after several indigenous film makers and marketers converged on Lagos, to condemn a current trend whereby Chinese and Indian films are being re-voiced in Yoruba language.

The film makers posited that the act, if not quickly curtailed, is not only capable of eroding Nigeria’s indigenous culture but also, it would constitute a threat to employment generation which the film industry is noted for. Meanwhile, on the face-off between the Nigerian Film Corporation, and players in the movie industry, the latter is kicking against the film commission bill, on the ground that the regulatory body did not carry the industry along. It would be recalled that weeks back, HVP exclusively reported that the NFC has sent a bill to the House of Representatives, canvassing for the establisment of a new Nigerian Film Commission which will empower it to oversee the activities in the movie industry.

 According to the regulatory body, if the bill scale through, it would swing into action to sanitize the industry by ensuring that professionalism becomes the top priority of the regulatory body. However, a public hearing on the bill titled ‘An Act to repeal the Nigerian Film Corporation Act, CAP. N109, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004, and Re-Enact the Nigerian Film Commission Act, 2016, to regulate the Film Industry in Nigeria, and for other Related Matters, 2015 (HB.150’ was held at the National Assembly Complex on December 6.

Dissatisfied with this move, heads of guilds in the film industry held a press conference last week at the National Theatre, Iganmu, Lagos,lamenting the clandestine manner the NFC went about the matter and called for a total review of clauses in the draft bill. According to the guilds, no industry player knew about the existence of the bill which had already been read twice because the NFC did not inform them. They contended that the bill would have been passed into law if some of their colleagues had not stumbled on a notice of the public hearing and mobilised to attend it. President, Directors Guild of Nigeria (DGN) Fred Amata, who coordinated the event explained that aside not being informed about the bill, its clauses “are inimical to the growth and development of the film industry in Nigeria.

The clauses of the bill are duplicating existing rules and regulations of the film industry domiciled in agencies like the Nigerian Broadcasting Commission and the National Film and Video Censors Board.” Amata added that some of the clauses have been adequately addressed in the Motion Picture Council of Nigeria (MOPICON) draft bill which a committee constituted by the Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed has comprehensively reviewed. Ms. Peace Anyiam Osigwe, who chaired the MOPICON draft review committee which submitted the report to the Information Minister three weeks ago, said that industry players are not against the establishment of a film commission but wondered how it would be established and function without input from practitioners who know where the shoe pinches. “NFC boss, Dadu should have come to us with his agenda; he would have ensured that it was in unison with the direction the industry wanted to go.

 We spent seven months reviewing the MOPICON document, he hasn’t asked for a copy of the review yet he’s regulating our industry. It’s disrespectful to all associations and guilds not to be informed about the bill. If you have not been able to handle the NFC, how will you handle the film commission,” she said. Also, speaking in the same vein, veteran film maker, Mahmood Ali-Balogun commended the House Committee for given them the opportunity to make input before passing the bill. He, however, called on all players in the industry to endeavour to be involved in reviewing of the bill.

According to Mr. Andy Amenechi, former president of DGN, the establishment of Nigerian film commission should due process. “It’s unfortunate that a developmental agency like the Nigerian Film Corporation has done nothing till date to support the development of the industry since Dadu assumed office as its Director-General. The establishment of Nigerian film commission should follow due process. I don’t think anybody has problem with MOPICON bill because it followed due process from inception. But if things are done properly because we need the support that will actually steer the industry to a great height. We thanked the House Committee for bringing the bill to the public domain.

NFC metamorphosing into a film commission without taking contribution from the industry will not be not possible as far as Nollywood is concerned,” he said. President, Association of Movie Producer,AMP, Ralph Nwadike frowned at the inability of the NFC boss to carry them along. “We made Nollywood, not the Federal Government. I think it’s an insult; an affront to the entire industry.

You can’t come to reap where you did not sow. I feel very insulted and to think it has passed second reading.” For Norbert Ajaegbu of the Film and Video Producers and Marketers Association, allowing the NFC to have its way will be allowing government take control of the film industry through the back door. “There is no need for the National Assembly to pass the bill; attention should be given to the MOPICON Bill.” Others who condemned the NFC’s action, at the event were a representative of the Screen Writers Guild of Nigeria, Chidi Nwokabia; Emeka Samuel Aduah of the Marketers Association of Nigeria; Fidelis Awata of the Association of Motion Pictures and Entertainment Editors of Nigeria; President, Association of Nollywood Core Producers, Daisy Madu Chikwendu; founding president of the DGN and the immediate past president, Mathias Obahiagbon.

END-OF-YEAR CONTROVERIES: Nollywood, NFC

Posted by Sylvester No comments

A cold war may well be on between the Nigerian Film Corporation,NFC, and practitioners in the film industry following a bill currently in the House of Representatives seeking to transform the former into the Nigerian Film Commission.

This is coming shortly after several indigenous film makers and marketers converged on Lagos, to condemn a current trend whereby Chinese and Indian films are being re-voiced in Yoruba language.

The film makers posited that the act, if not quickly curtailed, is not only capable of eroding Nigeria’s indigenous culture but also, it would constitute a threat to employment generation which the film industry is noted for. Meanwhile, on the face-off between the Nigerian Film Corporation, and players in the movie industry, the latter is kicking against the film commission bill, on the ground that the regulatory body did not carry the industry along. It would be recalled that weeks back, HVP exclusively reported that the NFC has sent a bill to the House of Representatives, canvassing for the establisment of a new Nigerian Film Commission which will empower it to oversee the activities in the movie industry.

 According to the regulatory body, if the bill scale through, it would swing into action to sanitize the industry by ensuring that professionalism becomes the top priority of the regulatory body. However, a public hearing on the bill titled ‘An Act to repeal the Nigerian Film Corporation Act, CAP. N109, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004, and Re-Enact the Nigerian Film Commission Act, 2016, to regulate the Film Industry in Nigeria, and for other Related Matters, 2015 (HB.150’ was held at the National Assembly Complex on December 6.

Dissatisfied with this move, heads of guilds in the film industry held a press conference last week at the National Theatre, Iganmu, Lagos,lamenting the clandestine manner the NFC went about the matter and called for a total review of clauses in the draft bill. According to the guilds, no industry player knew about the existence of the bill which had already been read twice because the NFC did not inform them. They contended that the bill would have been passed into law if some of their colleagues had not stumbled on a notice of the public hearing and mobilised to attend it. President, Directors Guild of Nigeria (DGN) Fred Amata, who coordinated the event explained that aside not being informed about the bill, its clauses “are inimical to the growth and development of the film industry in Nigeria.

The clauses of the bill are duplicating existing rules and regulations of the film industry domiciled in agencies like the Nigerian Broadcasting Commission and the National Film and Video Censors Board.” Amata added that some of the clauses have been adequately addressed in the Motion Picture Council of Nigeria (MOPICON) draft bill which a committee constituted by the Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed has comprehensively reviewed. Ms. Peace Anyiam Osigwe, who chaired the MOPICON draft review committee which submitted the report to the Information Minister three weeks ago, said that industry players are not against the establishment of a film commission but wondered how it would be established and function without input from practitioners who know where the shoe pinches. “NFC boss, Dadu should have come to us with his agenda; he would have ensured that it was in unison with the direction the industry wanted to go.

 We spent seven months reviewing the MOPICON document, he hasn’t asked for a copy of the review yet he’s regulating our industry. It’s disrespectful to all associations and guilds not to be informed about the bill. If you have not been able to handle the NFC, how will you handle the film commission,” she said. Also, speaking in the same vein, veteran film maker, Mahmood Ali-Balogun commended the House Committee for given them the opportunity to make input before passing the bill. He, however, called on all players in the industry to endeavour to be involved in reviewing of the bill.

According to Mr. Andy Amenechi, former president of DGN, the establishment of Nigerian film commission should due process. “It’s unfortunate that a developmental agency like the Nigerian Film Corporation has done nothing till date to support the development of the industry since Dadu assumed office as its Director-General. The establishment of Nigerian film commission should follow due process. I don’t think anybody has problem with MOPICON bill because it followed due process from inception. But if things are done properly because we need the support that will actually steer the industry to a great height. We thanked the House Committee for bringing the bill to the public domain.

NFC metamorphosing into a film commission without taking contribution from the industry will not be not possible as far as Nollywood is concerned,” he said. President, Association of Movie Producer,AMP, Ralph Nwadike frowned at the inability of the NFC boss to carry them along. “We made Nollywood, not the Federal Government. I think it’s an insult; an affront to the entire industry.

You can’t come to reap where you did not sow. I feel very insulted and to think it has passed second reading.” For Norbert Ajaegbu of the Film and Video Producers and Marketers Association, allowing the NFC to have its way will be allowing government take control of the film industry through the back door. “There is no need for the National Assembly to pass the bill; attention should be given to the MOPICON Bill.” Others who condemned the NFC’s action, at the event were a representative of the Screen Writers Guild of Nigeria, Chidi Nwokabia; Emeka Samuel Aduah of the Marketers Association of Nigeria; Fidelis Awata of the Association of Motion Pictures and Entertainment Editors of Nigeria; President, Association of Nollywood Core Producers, Daisy Madu Chikwendu; founding president of the DGN and the immediate past president, Mathias Obahiagbon.

Two Dead, Mosque Burnt As Fulani, Igbo Clash in Enugu Market‎ Over N500

Tension was high at the Garki Area of Enugu State on Wednesday following a deadly clash between the Fulani and the Igbos.

Already, the police in the state confirmed to DAILY POST that two persons were killed during the bloody clash.

The deceased persons were identified as one Ali, a Fulani and Ifeanyi Ifeacho, an Igbo.

The incident is coming few days after a policeman was killed at the New Artisan Market, prompting the closure of the market by the State Government.

According to an eyewitness, trouble started when Ali came from the New Artisan Market with a cow to slaughter in the Gariki abattoir.

He disclosed that “Ali came to Gariki abattoir where Ifeanyi worked as attendant to slaughter his cow, following the closure of New Artisan Market by the state government early this week.

“When Ali finished slaughtering his cow, he gave Ifeanyi N400 instead of the N500 fee for slaughtering a cow in the abattoir.

“Ifeanyi asked him to give him the remaining N100 but the Fulani man remained adamant, insisting that he would not pay any other money.

“The misunderstanding degenerated to a fight between the two.”

It was gathered that Ali quickly pulled out a dagger and stabbed Ifeanyi severally on the stomach.

Ifeanyi slumped on the ground and died on the spot.

“When he realized what he had done, he (Ali) attempted to escape from the market but some outraged Igbo traders grabbed him and killed him in turn.

“The angry Igbo traders mobilized and burnt down the mosque inside Gariki market.”

The Spokesman for Enugu State Police Command, SP Ebere Amaraizu, who had earlier confirmed the incident through a text message to our correspondent, said the command deployed anti-riot policemen to Gariki market immediately to stop the situation from escalating.

He stated that: “Two persons were confirmed dead during a clash between an Easterner and a Northerner over an alleged misunderstanding that arose between them in the evening at Gariki Awkunanaw Market.

“Security has been beefed up in the area by Enugu State Commissioner of Police, Douglas Agbonleni, to avoid escalation and breakdown of law and order, just as a full scale investigation has commenced into the incident.‎”

Two Dead, Mosque Burnt As Fulani, Igbo Clash in Enugu Market‎ Over N500

Posted by Sylvester No comments

Tension was high at the Garki Area of Enugu State on Wednesday following a deadly clash between the Fulani and the Igbos.

Already, the police in the state confirmed to DAILY POST that two persons were killed during the bloody clash.

The deceased persons were identified as one Ali, a Fulani and Ifeanyi Ifeacho, an Igbo.

The incident is coming few days after a policeman was killed at the New Artisan Market, prompting the closure of the market by the State Government.

According to an eyewitness, trouble started when Ali came from the New Artisan Market with a cow to slaughter in the Gariki abattoir.

He disclosed that “Ali came to Gariki abattoir where Ifeanyi worked as attendant to slaughter his cow, following the closure of New Artisan Market by the state government early this week.

“When Ali finished slaughtering his cow, he gave Ifeanyi N400 instead of the N500 fee for slaughtering a cow in the abattoir.

“Ifeanyi asked him to give him the remaining N100 but the Fulani man remained adamant, insisting that he would not pay any other money.

“The misunderstanding degenerated to a fight between the two.”

It was gathered that Ali quickly pulled out a dagger and stabbed Ifeanyi severally on the stomach.

Ifeanyi slumped on the ground and died on the spot.

“When he realized what he had done, he (Ali) attempted to escape from the market but some outraged Igbo traders grabbed him and killed him in turn.

“The angry Igbo traders mobilized and burnt down the mosque inside Gariki market.”

The Spokesman for Enugu State Police Command, SP Ebere Amaraizu, who had earlier confirmed the incident through a text message to our correspondent, said the command deployed anti-riot policemen to Gariki market immediately to stop the situation from escalating.

He stated that: “Two persons were confirmed dead during a clash between an Easterner and a Northerner over an alleged misunderstanding that arose between them in the evening at Gariki Awkunanaw Market.

“Security has been beefed up in the area by Enugu State Commissioner of Police, Douglas Agbonleni, to avoid escalation and breakdown of law and order, just as a full scale investigation has commenced into the incident.‎”

Son Of Ex-Katsina District Head Sentenced To Death By Hanging

A Katsina State High Court sitting in Funtua on Thursday sentenced Mu’ammar Tukur, son of former District Head of Bakori, to death by hanging for culpable homicide.
Mr. Tukur, 32, whose late father represented Bakori/Danja Federal Constituency at Federal House of Representatives, was convicted for stabbing Shafir Muktar to death.

In his judgment, Justice Abbas Bawale said the prosecution led by Aminu Garba had established the case of culpable homicide against the convict beyond reasonable doubt.

Mr. Bawale said the prosecution called five witnesses and tendered four exhibits which established the three needed ingredients, including death of the victim, cause of the death and intention of the action.

He said the incident occurred on April 21, 2008 during a fight between the convict and some of the prosecution witnesses at viewing centre.

The judge said the defence counsel, AbdulAziz Olagoke’s effort to contradict the evidence of the prosecution was futile.

He said the defence’s argument that the prosecution did not tender the metallic material used in committing the offence could not be sustained.

The judge said the convict ran away between 2008 and 2013 and was arrested at the graveyard during the funeral of his deceased mother.

Mr. Bawale held that the convict’s reliance on provocation was not material because he left the scene and came with the metallic instrument to perpetrate the act.

He said the prosecution had proved the case beyond reasonable doubt as required by law and sentenced the convict to death by hanging.

The judge also said the plea for leniency could not be entertained because the court’s discretion was blocked by law and directed that the plea should be set to the state governor.

Son Of Ex-Katsina District Head Sentenced To Death By Hanging

Posted by Sylvester No comments

A Katsina State High Court sitting in Funtua on Thursday sentenced Mu’ammar Tukur, son of former District Head of Bakori, to death by hanging for culpable homicide.
Mr. Tukur, 32, whose late father represented Bakori/Danja Federal Constituency at Federal House of Representatives, was convicted for stabbing Shafir Muktar to death.

In his judgment, Justice Abbas Bawale said the prosecution led by Aminu Garba had established the case of culpable homicide against the convict beyond reasonable doubt.

Mr. Bawale said the prosecution called five witnesses and tendered four exhibits which established the three needed ingredients, including death of the victim, cause of the death and intention of the action.

He said the incident occurred on April 21, 2008 during a fight between the convict and some of the prosecution witnesses at viewing centre.

The judge said the defence counsel, AbdulAziz Olagoke’s effort to contradict the evidence of the prosecution was futile.

He said the defence’s argument that the prosecution did not tender the metallic material used in committing the offence could not be sustained.

The judge said the convict ran away between 2008 and 2013 and was arrested at the graveyard during the funeral of his deceased mother.

Mr. Bawale held that the convict’s reliance on provocation was not material because he left the scene and came with the metallic instrument to perpetrate the act.

He said the prosecution had proved the case beyond reasonable doubt as required by law and sentenced the convict to death by hanging.

The judge also said the plea for leniency could not be entertained because the court’s discretion was blocked by law and directed that the plea should be set to the state governor.

Economic Recession Hits Event Planners

A number of event planners in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) said that the current economic recession in Nigeria caused a drastic reduction in the number of events organised in 2016.

The event planners made this known in interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja on Friday.

Stefanie Okerafor, a wedding planner, told NAN that there was a reduction in the number of wedding events organised as the year drew to an end.

“The major wedding months are June, July, August and December.

“The recession hit hard in September and since then there has been a decline in the number of events organised.

“I have clients that had set dates for events but ended up making deductions or cancelling their wedding dates due to financial difficulties.

“I was looking forward to making more profit in December but this month has really been slow,” she said.

Tonye Jack, another event planner said, “it has been really hard this December and I think it is the worst month I have had since I became a wedding planner four years ago.

“December normally has many events and we, event planners, make most of our income in December because of the weddings, bridal showers and Christmas parties.

“We are just hoping for a better 2017 and pray that more Nigerians have things to celebrate.”

Seun Ajisafe, also an event planner, expressed the hope that 2016 would be the worst financial year to be experienced by Nigerians.

“There was a fall in demand for the services of event planners by December of 2015, and I thought that would be the worst.

“I had high hopes for this year, but so far, it has been terrible.

“As 2016 draws to an end, I can safely say this has been the worst year for event planners in Nigeria and we just pray it doesn’t get any worse than this,” she said.

Economic Recession Hits Event Planners

Posted by Sylvester No comments

A number of event planners in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) said that the current economic recession in Nigeria caused a drastic reduction in the number of events organised in 2016.

The event planners made this known in interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja on Friday.

Stefanie Okerafor, a wedding planner, told NAN that there was a reduction in the number of wedding events organised as the year drew to an end.

“The major wedding months are June, July, August and December.

“The recession hit hard in September and since then there has been a decline in the number of events organised.

“I have clients that had set dates for events but ended up making deductions or cancelling their wedding dates due to financial difficulties.

“I was looking forward to making more profit in December but this month has really been slow,” she said.

Tonye Jack, another event planner said, “it has been really hard this December and I think it is the worst month I have had since I became a wedding planner four years ago.

“December normally has many events and we, event planners, make most of our income in December because of the weddings, bridal showers and Christmas parties.

“We are just hoping for a better 2017 and pray that more Nigerians have things to celebrate.”

Seun Ajisafe, also an event planner, expressed the hope that 2016 would be the worst financial year to be experienced by Nigerians.

“There was a fall in demand for the services of event planners by December of 2015, and I thought that would be the worst.

“I had high hopes for this year, but so far, it has been terrible.

“As 2016 draws to an end, I can safely say this has been the worst year for event planners in Nigeria and we just pray it doesn’t get any worse than this,” she said.

New Abia Speaker Resigns, Less Than 24hrs Into His New Role

The new  Speaker of  Abia State House of Assembly,  Kennedy Njoku, has resigned his appointment, less than 24 hours after he was elected.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Njoku was elected at about 4.10 p.m. on Thursday following the impeachment of  Chief Martins Azubuike over alleged gross financial misconduct and autocratic leadership style.

Njoku, who announced his resignation at the resumption of plenary at about  2.50 p.m.  on Friday, thanked members for the confidence they reposed in him by electing him as Speaker.

He, however,  promised to continue to provide effective representation to his Osisioma-Ngwa State Constituency.

The Deputy Speaker, Dr  Cosmos Ndukwe, who presided over the session, described   Njoku’s resignation as “shocking.”

The Clerk of the House, Mr John-Pedro Irokansi, immediately called for an election to be conducted to fill the vacuum created by Njoku’s resignation.

The member representing Umuahia East Constituency, Mr Chukwudi Apugo, nominated Mr Chikwendu Kalu, representing Isialangwa South Constituency, and was seconded by Mr Ifeanyi Uchendu, representing Ohafia South Constituency.

Kalu was elected by consensus and was affirmed with a voice vote by the 24 members of the assembly.

With his election, Kalu, an Aba-based legal practitioner, emerged the tenth  Speaker of the sixth  Abia Assembly.

New Abia Speaker Resigns, Less Than 24hrs Into His New Role

Posted by Sylvester No comments

The new  Speaker of  Abia State House of Assembly,  Kennedy Njoku, has resigned his appointment, less than 24 hours after he was elected.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Njoku was elected at about 4.10 p.m. on Thursday following the impeachment of  Chief Martins Azubuike over alleged gross financial misconduct and autocratic leadership style.

Njoku, who announced his resignation at the resumption of plenary at about  2.50 p.m.  on Friday, thanked members for the confidence they reposed in him by electing him as Speaker.

He, however,  promised to continue to provide effective representation to his Osisioma-Ngwa State Constituency.

The Deputy Speaker, Dr  Cosmos Ndukwe, who presided over the session, described   Njoku’s resignation as “shocking.”

The Clerk of the House, Mr John-Pedro Irokansi, immediately called for an election to be conducted to fill the vacuum created by Njoku’s resignation.

The member representing Umuahia East Constituency, Mr Chukwudi Apugo, nominated Mr Chikwendu Kalu, representing Isialangwa South Constituency, and was seconded by Mr Ifeanyi Uchendu, representing Ohafia South Constituency.

Kalu was elected by consensus and was affirmed with a voice vote by the 24 members of the assembly.

With his election, Kalu, an Aba-based legal practitioner, emerged the tenth  Speaker of the sixth  Abia Assembly.

Rivers State Assembly Speaker Resigns, New One Elected

The Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Daborotudima Adams on Friday resigned his appointment shortly after administering oath of office on 12 newly elected members.

Information on what led to the sudden resignation of the ex-speaker was still sketchy as at the time of filing this report.

Meanwhile, the member representing Andoni Constituency, Ikunyi Ibani, of the Peoples Democratic Party has been re-elected speaker of the House.

The Deputy speaker of the House, Marshal Uwom presided over the election of the new speaker.

Ikunyi Ibani was speaker of the Assembly between June and December 2015 but resigned after the Election Tribunal Appeals Court annulled his election.

He was returned elected after the December 10 legislative re-run poll.

In the meantime, the Rivers State House of Assembly has sworn-In 12 members into the Assembly.

Rivers State Assembly Speaker Resigns, New One Elected

Posted by Sylvester No comments

The Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Daborotudima Adams on Friday resigned his appointment shortly after administering oath of office on 12 newly elected members.

Information on what led to the sudden resignation of the ex-speaker was still sketchy as at the time of filing this report.

Meanwhile, the member representing Andoni Constituency, Ikunyi Ibani, of the Peoples Democratic Party has been re-elected speaker of the House.

The Deputy speaker of the House, Marshal Uwom presided over the election of the new speaker.

Ikunyi Ibani was speaker of the Assembly between June and December 2015 but resigned after the Election Tribunal Appeals Court annulled his election.

He was returned elected after the December 10 legislative re-run poll.

In the meantime, the Rivers State House of Assembly has sworn-In 12 members into the Assembly.

Aliko Dangote Drops Out of List Of Top 100 Billionaires

While the world’s wealthiest people are ending 2016 with $237 billion more than they had at the start of the year, Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote is sadly not part of the party as he lost a whopping $4.9 billion of his fortune.

The industialist who was formely the world’s 46th-richest man, dropped out of the top 100 list to No. 112 with a total fortune of $10.4 billion. The drop according to reports was due to falling oil prices and naira devaluation.

According to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index, disappointing economic data from China at the beginning, the U.K.’s vote to leave the European Union in the middle and the election of billionaire Donald Trump at the end, saw the biggest fortunes on the planet whipsawed through $4.8 trillion of daily net worth gains and losses during the year, rising 5.7 percent to $4.4 trillion by the close of trading Dec. 27.

Aliko Dangote Drops Out of List Of Top 100 Billionaires

Posted by Sylvester No comments

While the world’s wealthiest people are ending 2016 with $237 billion more than they had at the start of the year, Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote is sadly not part of the party as he lost a whopping $4.9 billion of his fortune.

The industialist who was formely the world’s 46th-richest man, dropped out of the top 100 list to No. 112 with a total fortune of $10.4 billion. The drop according to reports was due to falling oil prices and naira devaluation.

According to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index, disappointing economic data from China at the beginning, the U.K.’s vote to leave the European Union in the middle and the election of billionaire Donald Trump at the end, saw the biggest fortunes on the planet whipsawed through $4.8 trillion of daily net worth gains and losses during the year, rising 5.7 percent to $4.4 trillion by the close of trading Dec. 27.

DSS Arrests Woman For Kidnapping Son in Yobe

A woman has been arrested in Damaturu, Yobe state, north east Nigeria over the kidnap of her 10 year-old son.

The woman, identified as Barakat Daya was arrested on Wednesday by the operatives of the Department of State Services after her 10 year-old son, Moh’d Yusuf Daya was rescued from kidnappers. Her friend, Rukayat Danladi was also arrested.

The DSS suspects their culpability in the kidnap case.

The DSS was called in after the boy was kidnapped on Wednesday morning at Ben Kalio Housing Estate, Damaturu. The kidnappers demanded a ransom of N5 million .

However, about 7:20pm same day, the operatives of the Service rescued the boy in Potiskum town, Potiskum LGA. The town is about 100 kms from Damaturu.

The startling revelation about the 10 year-old boy’s mother acting in cahoot with kidnappers was made by Tony Opuiyo in the end of the year statement cataloguing the crime busting efforts of the secret agency.

In a related development, Tony Opuiyo also revealed that the agency has uncovered a criminal gang which specialises in robbing foreigners, either visiting or living in Abuja.

Members of the gang who robbed an expatriate in a high brow hotel in Abuja and carted away his money and other valuables, have however been arrested.

According to a statement by Tony Opuiyo for the agency, two of the gang members, Ikechukwu Obadlegwu and Ikechukwu Joseph Eke are in the net.

While Obadlegwu carried out surveillance on potential targets for the group, Eke is the kingpin and mastermind of the whole operation.

DSS said it has almost recovered all the stolen items.

The DSS said it arrested a notorious fraudster at Gwaron Dutse, Kano Municipal, Kano State.

The fraudster was identified as Auwalu Abdullahi Yakasai.

He was apprehended for allegedly defrauding Jaiz and Unity Banks of N100 Million and N50 Million respectively.

DSS Arrests Woman For Kidnapping Son in Yobe

Posted by Sylvester No comments

A woman has been arrested in Damaturu, Yobe state, north east Nigeria over the kidnap of her 10 year-old son.

The woman, identified as Barakat Daya was arrested on Wednesday by the operatives of the Department of State Services after her 10 year-old son, Moh’d Yusuf Daya was rescued from kidnappers. Her friend, Rukayat Danladi was also arrested.

The DSS suspects their culpability in the kidnap case.

The DSS was called in after the boy was kidnapped on Wednesday morning at Ben Kalio Housing Estate, Damaturu. The kidnappers demanded a ransom of N5 million .

However, about 7:20pm same day, the operatives of the Service rescued the boy in Potiskum town, Potiskum LGA. The town is about 100 kms from Damaturu.

The startling revelation about the 10 year-old boy’s mother acting in cahoot with kidnappers was made by Tony Opuiyo in the end of the year statement cataloguing the crime busting efforts of the secret agency.

In a related development, Tony Opuiyo also revealed that the agency has uncovered a criminal gang which specialises in robbing foreigners, either visiting or living in Abuja.

Members of the gang who robbed an expatriate in a high brow hotel in Abuja and carted away his money and other valuables, have however been arrested.

According to a statement by Tony Opuiyo for the agency, two of the gang members, Ikechukwu Obadlegwu and Ikechukwu Joseph Eke are in the net.

While Obadlegwu carried out surveillance on potential targets for the group, Eke is the kingpin and mastermind of the whole operation.

DSS said it has almost recovered all the stolen items.

The DSS said it arrested a notorious fraudster at Gwaron Dutse, Kano Municipal, Kano State.

The fraudster was identified as Auwalu Abdullahi Yakasai.

He was apprehended for allegedly defrauding Jaiz and Unity Banks of N100 Million and N50 Million respectively.

Many Feared Dead as Troops Battle Boko Haram Terrorists In Borno

At least 15 Boko Haram fighters were killed in Borno on Friday as Nigerian troops of Operation Lafiya Dole and Boko Haram terrorists engaged in prolonged fierce battle in Borno State.

Military insiders told PREMIUM TIMES the battle ensued at 6 a.m this morning and did not end until after 9 a.m.

Our sources said the battle began when fighters of the terror group launched a surprise attack on troops location in Rann, in northern Borno, shooting sporadically.

Troops from 3 Battalion and 112 Task Force Battalion are stationed in the area, our sources said.

The soldiers responded promptly, killing an unknown number of the terrorists, and wounding several others.

The battle raged for over two hours, and when the dust settled, several terrorists were found dead.

One of our sources said more than 15 of the Boko Haram fighters were killed in action.

Another said the figure was much higher, saying many other terrorists escaped from the scene with gunshot wounds.

Both sources however said four Nigerian soldiers were wounded in action, adding that authorities had since contacted the nearby 22 Brigade to send air ambulance to evacuate a critically injured soldier.

Our sources gave arms and ammunition recovered from the terrorists to include two AK47 rifles, four FN rifles, one M21 rifle, 110 X 7.62MM NATO ammunition, 20 X 7.62MM special,, 40 X M21 rounds, 4 X FN extra magazine and two locally made explosives.

Many Feared Dead as Troops Battle Boko Haram Terrorists In Borno

Posted by Sylvester No comments

At least 15 Boko Haram fighters were killed in Borno on Friday as Nigerian troops of Operation Lafiya Dole and Boko Haram terrorists engaged in prolonged fierce battle in Borno State.

Military insiders told PREMIUM TIMES the battle ensued at 6 a.m this morning and did not end until after 9 a.m.

Our sources said the battle began when fighters of the terror group launched a surprise attack on troops location in Rann, in northern Borno, shooting sporadically.

Troops from 3 Battalion and 112 Task Force Battalion are stationed in the area, our sources said.

The soldiers responded promptly, killing an unknown number of the terrorists, and wounding several others.

The battle raged for over two hours, and when the dust settled, several terrorists were found dead.

One of our sources said more than 15 of the Boko Haram fighters were killed in action.

Another said the figure was much higher, saying many other terrorists escaped from the scene with gunshot wounds.

Both sources however said four Nigerian soldiers were wounded in action, adding that authorities had since contacted the nearby 22 Brigade to send air ambulance to evacuate a critically injured soldier.

Our sources gave arms and ammunition recovered from the terrorists to include two AK47 rifles, four FN rifles, one M21 rifle, 110 X 7.62MM NATO ammunition, 20 X 7.62MM special,, 40 X M21 rounds, 4 X FN extra magazine and two locally made explosives.

Donald Trump Says There Was ‘No way’ He Would Have Lost To Obama

Following a statement made by US President Barack Obama on Monday that he would have defeated president-elect Donald Trump if he ran in the elections for a third term, the latter has hit back saying there was ”no way” that could have happened.
Trump tweeted hours after Obama’s statement: “President Obama said that he thinks he would have won against me. He should say that but I say NO WAY! – jobs leaving, ISIS, OCare, etc.”

In the November 8 presidential election, the Democratic candidate, Hillary Clinton, who was backed by almost the entire mainstream American media, suffered a crushing defeat by Trump, despite the fact that the Republican nominee’s campaign had been hit with many controversies since its inception in early 2015.

Donald Trump Says There Was ‘No way’ He Would Have Lost To Obama

Posted by Sylvester No comments

Following a statement made by US President Barack Obama on Monday that he would have defeated president-elect Donald Trump if he ran in the elections for a third term, the latter has hit back saying there was ”no way” that could have happened.
Trump tweeted hours after Obama’s statement: “President Obama said that he thinks he would have won against me. He should say that but I say NO WAY! – jobs leaving, ISIS, OCare, etc.”

In the November 8 presidential election, the Democratic candidate, Hillary Clinton, who was backed by almost the entire mainstream American media, suffered a crushing defeat by Trump, despite the fact that the Republican nominee’s campaign had been hit with many controversies since its inception in early 2015.

Manchester City’s Yaya Toure Embarrasses Kelechi Iheanacho on Live TV

Yaya Toure was given the Man of the Match award after their game against Hull City yesterday, and the Ivorian managed to embarrass teammate Kelechi Iheanacho during their joint interview.

Watch highlights: Hull City Vs Man City below.

The midfielder had earlier mentioned it was his son’s birthday on Boxing Day, and revealed the award would serve as present for his kid.
“Oh nice, thank you very much, I will give it to my boy then,” Toure said.

Iheanacho is then seen to make a move for the award, seemingly mistaking the ‘my boy’ phrase for a term of endearment from his teammate. Toure reiterates the award is for his kid, not Iheanacho, and is heard laughing along with the interviewer.

Manchester City’s Yaya Toure Embarrasses Kelechi Iheanacho on Live TV

Posted by Sylvester No comments

Yaya Toure was given the Man of the Match award after their game against Hull City yesterday, and the Ivorian managed to embarrass teammate Kelechi Iheanacho during their joint interview.

Watch highlights: Hull City Vs Man City below.

The midfielder had earlier mentioned it was his son’s birthday on Boxing Day, and revealed the award would serve as present for his kid.
“Oh nice, thank you very much, I will give it to my boy then,” Toure said.

Iheanacho is then seen to make a move for the award, seemingly mistaking the ‘my boy’ phrase for a term of endearment from his teammate. Toure reiterates the award is for his kid, not Iheanacho, and is heard laughing along with the interviewer.

Borno Gov Calls For Probe Of Chibok School Rehabilitation Fund

Governor of Borno State, Alhaji Kashim Shettima, on Tuesday called for detailed investigation into what happened to the N500 million reportedly released for the reconstruction of Government Girls Secondary School, Chibok.

According to reports, the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan released the money to the community shortly after the abduction of Chibok school girls.

The former Minister of Finance, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, had flown to Chibok to inaugurate the N500 million rebuilding project under the Safe School Initiative programme.

Two years on, the project is yet to be completed, while students of the school remain at home.

Borno Gov Calls For Probe Of Chibok School Rehabilitation Fund

Posted by Sylvester No comments

Governor of Borno State, Alhaji Kashim Shettima, on Tuesday called for detailed investigation into what happened to the N500 million reportedly released for the reconstruction of Government Girls Secondary School, Chibok.

According to reports, the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan released the money to the community shortly after the abduction of Chibok school girls.

The former Minister of Finance, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, had flown to Chibok to inaugurate the N500 million rebuilding project under the Safe School Initiative programme.

Two years on, the project is yet to be completed, while students of the school remain at home.

Mrs Aisha Buhari Donates Christmas Gifts To Injured Soldiers

The Wife of the President, Mrs Aisha Buhari, on Tuesday, donated Christmas gifts to soldiers injured at the battlefield in Sambisa Forest.

The items were distributed on her behalf by Hajiya Nana Shettima, the Chairperson of Mrs Aisha Buhari’s Committee on Distribution of Donated Items at Maimalari cantonment, Maiduguri.

Shettima also visited other injured troops at the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, Maiduguri.

According to her, Mrs Buhari’s gesture is to celebrate Christmas festivities with the injured and to appreciate their efforts in restoring peace.

“Both religions say how good and pleasant it is when God makes us enjoy together in peace, tranquility, progress and unity.

“I am not here in my own capacity alone but am wearing two caps; I am here representing the wife of the president and as a wife of Borno governor,’’ she said.

Mrs Aisha Buhari Donates Christmas Gifts To Injured Soldiers

Posted by Sylvester No comments

The Wife of the President, Mrs Aisha Buhari, on Tuesday, donated Christmas gifts to soldiers injured at the battlefield in Sambisa Forest.

The items were distributed on her behalf by Hajiya Nana Shettima, the Chairperson of Mrs Aisha Buhari’s Committee on Distribution of Donated Items at Maimalari cantonment, Maiduguri.

Shettima also visited other injured troops at the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, Maiduguri.

According to her, Mrs Buhari’s gesture is to celebrate Christmas festivities with the injured and to appreciate their efforts in restoring peace.

“Both religions say how good and pleasant it is when God makes us enjoy together in peace, tranquility, progress and unity.

“I am not here in my own capacity alone but am wearing two caps; I am here representing the wife of the president and as a wife of Borno governor,’’ she said.