PINK REPUBLIC/ MY BLOG IS A STORY MARATHON.

 STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE PRESIDENT TINUBU DISMISSES TWO CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICERSo In conformity with plans to restructure and reposition critical agencies of the Federal Government towards protecting the rights of Nigerian consumers and providing a strong basis for enhanced contributions to the nation's economy by key growth-enabling institutions, President Bola Tinubu has dismissed the following Chief Executive Officers: (1) Mr. Babatunde Irukera — EVC/CEO, Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC)  (2) Mr. Alexander Ayoola Okoh — Director-General/CEO, Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE) The two dismissed Chief Executives are directed to hand over to the next most senior officer in their respective agencies, pending the appointment of new Chief Executive Officers. By this directive of the President, their removal from office takes immediate effect. Chief Ajuri Ngelale Special Adviser to the President (Media & Publicity) January 8, 2024

SANWO-OLU CHARGES ANGLICAN BISHOPS TO CONTINUOUSLY PRAY FOR PUBLIC OFFICERS  ...Primate, others hail Governor's performance in Lagos Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has charged religious leaders and Anglican Bishops, in particular, to continuously encourage and pray for public office holders.  He also implored the church leaders at various levels to bring succour to the people by encouraging them to be hopeful despite the current challenges facing the country.  Governor Sanwo-Olu spoke on Monday while welcoming the Primate, Archbishops, Bishops and their wives to the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) 2024 Annual Retreat for Bishops and their wives themed “Shepherding God’s Family” held at the Archbishop Adebola and Mrs. Oluranti Ademowo Christian Resource Centre (Faith Plaza), Bariga, Lagos. The Governor was received with funfair by the Metropolitan and Primate, Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), The Most Rev’d Dr. Henry Ndukuba, his wife, Angela, ...

OGC Nice have signed Mo Ali Cho on €12m deal from Real Sociedad.  Contract valid until June 2028. J  

Doyin Okupe Has Always Been PDP Member, We Expect Him To Defect – Labour Party Dr. Doyin Okupe, a former presidential spokesman for ex-presidents, Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan, is always a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the Labour Party (LP) has said. This was made known by Mr Obiora Ifoh, the LP's National Publicity Secretary, while speaking to Daily Trust on Monday. Recall that Okupe had announced his resignation from the party because he felt he had a different ideology from the party. Reacting, Ifoh stated that even though LP has not yet received Okupe's resignation letter, he took the correct decision to leave the party. Ifoh was quoted by Daily Trust as saying, “Yes, we received the letter from Dr. Doyin Okupe, tendering his resignation as a member of the Labour Party. We want to say that we wish him very well in his pursuit of his political career. We in the Labour Party cherish the moment we had with him. “After a short time, December 2022, whe...

Emefiele: EFCC to Appeal N100m Fine    The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, has expressed dissatisfaction with a judgment of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, High Court awarding N100 million damages against it in favour of a former governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN,  Godwin Emefiele. Justice O.A Adeniyi, on Monday, January 8, 2024  fined the Commission after he ruled that the Commission's detention of Emefiele in the course of his investigation was a violation of his right to liberty.  The decision failed to take cognizance of the fact that the former CBN boss was held with a valid order of court. Consequently, the Commission will approach the Court of Appeal to set it aside.  

German football legend Beckenbauer dies at 78 Franz Beckenbauer, who left a unique imprint on German football as a player, captain and coach, has died at the age of 78. The German Football Association disclosed on Monday. “Franz Beckenbauer was definitely the biggest German footballer of all time, and above all one of the greatest men who I have known,” DFB Vice President, Hans-Joachim Watzke, said. Beckenbauer, one of only three men to win the World Cup as a player and as a coach, passed away on Sunday, the DFB said.  

Pope Francis calls for global ban on surrogacy, says it's 'despicable' Pope Francis has described surrogate motherhood as a “despicable” practice that should be universally banned for its “commercialization” of pregnancy.  The Catholic leader made the call during his foreign policy address to ambassadors accredited to the Holy See which traditionally serves as a lament for all the world’s conflicts and injustices. An unborn child must not be “turned into an object of trafficking,” Francis said, adding. “I consider despicable the practice of so-called surrogate motherhood, which represents a grave violation of the dignity of the woman and the child, based on the exploitation of situations of the mother’s material needs.”  A child, he said, should never be “the basis of a commercial contract,” and called for a global ban on surrogacy “to prohibit this practice universally.” Francis has in the past called surrogacy “uterus for rent,”and some European countries prohibit it, inc...

‘I’ll teach you a lesson’ – Tiwa Savage’s ex-hubby, Tee Billz threatens Davido Music executive and estranged husband of singer, Tiwa Savage, Tunji Balogun, popularly known as Tee Billz, has threatened to teach Davido “a lesson” for allegedly disrespecting his family. He lamented that despite the “love” himself, Tiwa Savage and their son, Jamil showed towards Davido’s first daughter, Imade, he disrespected his family. Tee Billz, who didn’t disclose how the singer disrespected his family, vowed that his family would be the last he would ever disrespect. He added that he is waiting for the Grammys to be over, so he can spill the tea about the singer. In a lengthy Instagram post, Tee Billz wrote: “Protecting one’s family is not just a duty; it’s the essence of a man’s character, a testament to his love and commitment……… After the love Jamil, the mother of my son and I have shown towards your daughter…… My Family is the last one you will ever disrespect in Nigeria.. It’s not a threat like I...

Why I quit lecturing for skit making – ZicSaloma Popular skit maker, Isaac Aloma, aka ZicSaloma, has revealed that he was a lecturer at the Kaduna Polytechnic but quit to focus on skit making because of the poor salary he was earning. Speaking in a recent podcast interview with actress Iyabo Ojo, Aloma noted that he has always been determined to be successful, stressing that he started his master’s programme while carrying out his youth service. He explained that he served at Kadpoly and was retained as a lecturer after his youth service. The skit maker recalled that while lecturing, he was still auditioning for singing competitions and even participated in an edition of The Voice Nigeria. He said his foray into skit-making was “unplanned,” noting that he struggled with it for three years before gaining traction. Aloma said, “I started making skits unplanned. It wasn’t something I took seriously but it was gaining traction. At first, I was posting my skits on Facebook, and my Facebook ...

Supreme Court reserves Judgement in Ebonyi governorship election appeal 8th Jan 2024  The Supreme Court has reserved Judgement in the Ebonyi State governorship election appeal to a date that will be communicated to parties. Justice John Okoro reserved the Judgement after parties adopted their briefs of argument on Monday. The Court of Appeal Lagos, had earlier affirmed the election of Fran­cis Nwifuru as the duly elected governor of Ebonyi State. In a unanimous decision, the three-member panel led Justice Jummai Sankey, dismissed the appeal filed by Chukwuma Odii of the Peoples Democratic Party. The panel also resolved all the five issues raised against the appellant and dismissed the appeal for lacking in merit. Justice Sankey, held that the PDP and its candidate lacked the legal right to meddle in the internal affairs of the All Progressives Congress as it relates to the nomination of candidates.   

Supreme Court dismisses PDP’s appeal, upholds Rev Alia’s election as Benue Governor 8th Jan 2024  The Supreme Court has dismissed an appeal against the election of Governor Hycinth Alia of Benue State. The apex court also affirmed the election of the priest-turned-politician. The apex court decision followed the withdrawal of an appeal by counsel for Titus Uba of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Sebastian Hon. Uba had challenged the victory of Alia of the All Progressives Congress (APC). However, the Election Petitions Tribunal and the Court of Appeal, Abuja, affirmed Alia’s election as Benue governor, following his declaration by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) as the winner of the March 18 governorship election. The Court of Appeal had said it lacked the jurisdiction to hear the petition because it was a pre-election matter. The court held that Uba should have prosecuted the forgery allegation against the deputy governor, Sam Ode, at the high court. It als...

CAN Chairman leads protest march against Plateau killings 8th Jan 2024  The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Plateau State, on Monday, organised a rally to express displeasure against the continuous killings in the state and other parts of the country. The rally tagged, ‘Plateau Peace Walk’, was led by the CAN chairman in the state, Rev Polycarp Lubo, in the company of the President of the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA), Rev Dr Stephen Panya. Other Christian leaders at the rally include the President of the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN), Rev Dr Amos Mohzo; Bishop of Methodist Church, Jos, Rev Nkechi Nwosu; Rev. Gideon ParaMallam among other prominent Christian leaders in the state. Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang received the crowd at the Government House, Rayfield, Jos. Plateau State has been badly hit by blood-thirsty marauders of late with over 200 killed during a Christmas Eve attack in the Bokkos and the Barkin Ladi local government areas. Many hous...

Court Remands Randy UNICAL Professor, Cyril Ndifon in Kuje Prison Justice James Omotosho of a Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered that Professor Cyril Ndifon, the suspended Dean of Faculty of Law, University of Calabar (UNICAL), be remanded at the Kuje Centre of the Nigerian Correctional Service pending the conclusion of his bail application. Ndifon was on Monday arraigned by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) on four (4) count- charge over an alleged sexual misconduct against some of his students. The Professor of Law however pleaded not guilty when the charges were read to him. The Suspended Dean of the Faculty of Law at UNICAL was arrested by operatives of the Department of State Services DSS in October,2023 following a collaboration between the ICPC and the DSS over sex scandal with some students in his faculty.  

After long battle with depression TikToker, Princess Vanexxa passes on Princess Vanexxa, a teenage Nigerian TikToker, passes away following a protracted struggle with depression brought on by her early life experiences.  May her soul rest in peace, Amen.

Governor Bello Dethrones Traditional Ruler, Banishes Him From State January 8, 2024 The Kogi State Government under Governor Yahaya Bello has deposed a first class traditional ruler, the Ohimege Igu, Konto-Nkarfe, Alhaji Abdulrazaq Isa Koto. The deposed monarch was also banished to Rijau Local Government area of Niger State. The state governor, Yayaha Bello also appointed Alhaji Salihu Akawu Seidu, popularly known as SAS, to replace the deposed Ohimege. “He (Seidu) is to be turbaned immediately to avoid vacuum” Bello stated. The governor also announced the appointment of Alhaji Ahmed Tijani Anaje, who until now is the Ohi of Okenwen, as the new Ohinoyi of Ebiraland. Announcing the developments shortly after a meeting of the State Executive Committee, Bello said, “Having followed through our Traditional and Chieftaincy Laws, Rules and Regulations and all the due processes, we have come to the following resolutions. “His Royal Highness, Alhaji Abdulrazaq Isah Koto, the Ohimege-Igu Koton-...

Doyin Okupe Resigns From Labour Party, Gives Reason Doyin Okupe, former head of the Labour Party’s presidential campaign, has resigned from the party, citing ideological differences that emerged after the 2023 elections. In a letter made available on Monday, Okupe explained that his lifelong alignment with right-wing and liberal democratic principles clashed with Labour’s left-of-center ideology, making continued membership untenable. The letter reads, “I submit herewith my letter of resignation from the Labour Party with effect from today. You will recall that our flagbearer, Mr Peter Obi, myself and others left the PDP abruptly and had to look for a Special Purpose Vehicle in which to contest the 2023 Presidential Elections. “The Labour Party, your good self, and other members of your executives provided us with this veritable platform with no burdensomeness whatsoever and for which we were extremely grateful. “We did contest the election on the platform of the Labour Party and lost....

Nigerian Footballer Onazi Ogenyi Loses His Father Months After Losing His Mum.  Nigerian central midfielder Ogenyi  Onazi  has lost his father , Onazi   lost his father months after losing his mum.   The  the death of his father comes few  months after he lost his mother.   In September 2023, Ogenyi wrote on his  social media to mourn his mum, Cecilia Onazi who died and was buried in October 2023   This morning,  the midfielder wrote on his  Instagram to express shock at the passing of his father.  He said, " Still mourning the passing away of my dear mother now my Dad is gone.. what is remaining? Wicked world.. 🥲 #lordineedyourstrength''  More photos below. 

SUPREME COURT HEARS GOVERNORSHIP ELECTION APPEALS OF EBONYI AND BENUE STATES 8th January, 2024 Today, the Supreme Court convened to deliberate on the Governorship Election Appeals of Ebonyi and Benue States.  The panel of Justices, led by Justice John Okoro, presided over the proceedings to address the legal challenges brought before the court. In attendance were the Governor of Benue State, Hyacinth Alia, alongside his deputy, Sam Ode. The focal point of contention in Benue State revolves around the challenge lodged by Titus Uba, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate. Uba is contesting the victory of Governor Hyacinth Alia of the All Progressives Congress (APC). The Court of Appeal in Abuja had previously upheld Alia’s election, citing its lack of jurisdiction to hear the petition as it was deemed a pre-election matter.  The court ruled that Uba should have pursued the forgery allegations against Sam Ode, the deputy governor, in a high court. Moreover, Uba...

Nigerian filmmaker Moses Inwang and his wife, Emem, have parted ways after almost 10 years of marriage.    Moses announced their separation on his Instagram page this afternoon January 8.    He wrote; ‘’Happy new year family friends and fans. Today, I wanted to share some personal news that has been a difficult but necessary decision in my life.   After much reflection and discussion, Emem and I have decided to part ways after about 10 years of marriage. While this is undoubtedly a challenging time for both of us, we believe it is the best path forward for our individual happiness and personal growth.   As we navigate this new chapter, we kindly request your understanding and respect for our privacy. While we may be parting ways as partners, we remain committed to maintaining a positive and healthy co-parenting relationship for the well-being of our boy. One more photo below. 

Suspected bandits reportedly killed a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member identified as Obaje Saidu.    One Asta Matthew, who disclosed this in a Facebook post on Sunday, January 7, 2024, said the incident happened when the Nasarawa State University, Keffi graduate, was travelling back to Katsina State for his monthly clearance.    “The major problem of Nigeria is lack of Insecurity. Obaje Saidu was killed by bandits on his way back to Katsina for his monthly clearance. I remember how hard you worked for your relocation back to Kaduna but NYSC denied you, my dearest friend, Excess it feels hurt to say goodbye Mr. Marcho Batch B1, we made our platoon the best in camp history was made with you. Rest in Peace Legend, your killers will never find peace. Adieu,” she wrote. More photos below. 

STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE PRESIDENT TINUBU SUSPENDS MINISTER OF HUMANITARIAN AFFAIRS AND POVERTY ALLEVIATION FROM OFFICE In line with his avowed commitment to uphold the highest standards of integrity, transparency, and accountability in the management of the commonwealth of Nigerians, President Bola Tinubu suspends the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr. Betta Edu, from office with immediate effect. The President further directs the Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to conduct a thorough investigation into all aspects of the financial transactions involving the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, as well as one or more agencies thereunder. The suspended Minister is hereby directed to hand over to the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, and she is further directed by the President to fully cooperate with the investigating authorities a...

Tunji-Ojo Launches Online Passport Application Portal Nigerian first ever online application portal for international passport is due to be launched on Monday, January 8, 2024 by the Interior Minister, Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo in Abuja. The minister held a demonstration session of the online portal on Friday with the Comptroller General of Nigeria Immigration Service, Mrs Caroline Wura-Ola Adepoju. Also in attendance at the demo session were other key stakeholders and development partners. The session availed the opportunity to present and critically assess the automated passport application process; while constructive criticism were also entertained to ensure enhancement and improvement of the system. The online passport application portal has been developed for applicants from Nigeria and those from abroad.The passport are in two categories for both Nigerian and diaspora applicants. Nigerian applicants that desire passports with 5 years validity, 32 pages are to pay #25, 000, while th...

SANWO-OLU FELICITATES WIFE, IBIJOKE AT 57   Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has congratulated his wife and First Lady of the State, Dr. (Mrs) Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, on her 57th birthday, describing her as a dependable partner, committed prayer warrior, caring and loving wife and mother. Dr. Sanwo-Olu, the Chairman of the Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials (COWLSO) and a medical doctor by profession will clock 57 tomorrow January 8. Governor Sanwo-Olu in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Gboyega Akosile, on Sunday, described his wife as a courageous, kind-hearted and strong pillar of support, noting that the First Lady is a reliable partner in the delivery of the THEMES+ development agenda of his administration to Lagos residents. Sanwo-Olu also described the Lagos First Lady as his jewel of inestimable value who has touched many lives first as a medical practitioner and now as Governor's wife. He said: "On behalf of the government and the g...

71-year-old man named Joao Pimenta da Silva lost his life after falling down a 130-foot hole he had meticulously dug beneath his kitchen floor. The unfortunate incident occurred as Joao was attempting to uncover the gold he firmly believed was buried there. Joao’s obsession with the notion of hidden gold began after a dream where he envisioned himself sitting on a fortune. According to neighbours, he had been digging the hole for over a year, even hiring people to assist with the excavation. The costs escalated as the hole deepened, reaching approximately £80 for anyone entering to help remove earth. Reports suggest Joao encountered challenges during the digging process, including a large stone that proved difficult to remove. Rumors circulated that he had considered using dynamite. Despite warnings from concerned neighbours about the dangers of his mission, Joao persisted in his pursuit. The tragic incident unfolded on January 5 when Joao fell approximately 130 feet from a wooden plat...