PINK REPUBLIC/ MY BLOG IS A STORY MARATHON.

 PRESS RELEASE   BOAT MISHAP: IGP ORDERS IMMEDIATE INVESTIGATION INTO TRAGIC INCIDENT IN KOGI STATE - Reiterates Commitment to Waterways Safety and Swift Rescue Operations   The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, on behalf of the Nigeria Police Force, deeply commiserates with the Government and people of Kogi State, particularly the families affected by the boat tragedy on the 29th of November, 2024. The mishap, which occurred along the Dambo-Ebuchi waterways of the River Niger in Kupa Local Government Area, involved over 160 passengers, with 24 rescued and others still unaccounted for.   In response to this tragic incident, the IGP has directed the Force Marine Officer to lead a comprehensive investigation into the cause of the mishap. The aim is to identify contributing factors and develop actionable strategies to prevent similar occurrences on the nation’s waterways. This investigation will also provide insights into improving th...

 Hearn confirms Joshua’s 2025 return date Anthony Joshua’s promoter, Eddie Hearn, has confirmed that the former two-time heavyweight champion is set to make his highly anticipated return to the ring in 2025. The announcement comes in the wake of Joshua’s devastating loss to Daniel Dubois, a fight that derailed his bid to reclaim his position as a dominant force in the boxing world. Joshua, who turned 35 on October 15, is at a crossroads in his illustrious career. While some speculated the defeat might signal the end of his journey in professional boxing, Hearn dismissed any talk of retirement, reaffirming that the British-Nigerian remains committed to continuing his career. “Anthony loves boxing; he’d fight forever if he could,” Hearn said. The 2012 Olympic gold medallist entered 2023 with renewed vigour, securing four straight wins and looking poised to challenge for heavyweight supremacy once more. However, his encounter with Dubois in March 2024 proved a stumbling block. A bruta...

 Actor Damola Olatunji replies those asking if he is the father of Dayo Amusia’s son over video of him performing ‘Daddy Duties’ at her son’s naming ceremony Nollywood actor Damola Olatunji has replied to those asking if he is the father of his colleague Dayo Amusa’s son. We reported on Monday last week that the actress had welcomed a baby boy, Oluwafirewamiri. Noting how her treasure has arrived, Dayo expressed gratitude to her Maker as she expressed how excited she was to be a mum. On Monday, November 26th, the Yoruba actress held a naming ceremony for her newborn son, which had in attendance a few of her colleagues like veteran Fali Werepe, Omowunmi Ajiboye, Damola Olatunji, Iyabo Ojo, and Tope Osoba. In one of the clips of the naming ceremony, Damola Olatunji was captured sitting beside Dayo Amusa, playing the role of the child’s father, which raised eyebrows online. Taking to his Instagram page, Damola shared a video from the naming ceremony as he prayed for the actress’ son. ...

 I am busy and blessed – Iyabo Ojo’s daughter Priscilla throws shade at Very Dark Man Priscilla Ojo, the daughter of Nollywood actress Iyabo Ojo, has thrown shots at social media activist Very Dark Man. We reported that Iyabo had penned a heartfelt note to Very Dark Man. She stated that she had gained a deeper understanding of his behavior, which was sad.  She noted how his upbringing lacked love, care, and stability, hence his toxic narcīssistic behavior.  She further noted how his parents failed to provide him with a nurturing environment, leading to unresolved anger and pain. Addressing his mum, she stated that her lack of initiative and dependence on her ex-husband is concerning. She questioned if she had a flawed character or cheated on her husband and more. Replying to her, VDM stated that Priscilla has been ran through by many and would end up like her and become a single mother.  VDM added that when Priscilla also has a daughter, she would end up like her, to...

  Victor Osimhen vows to deliver Europa League crown to Galatasaray fans after setting record with Istanbul club Victor Osimhen is currently riding a wave of confidence following an impressive start to life at Galatasaray. The Nigerian striker, who joined the Istanbul club late in the summer transfer window, has quickly adapted to the demands of Turkish football. Having recently played a pivotal role in helping Galatasaray set a record-breaking start to the season, Osimhen added another goal to his tally, bringing his total to 12 goal involvements in 11 appearances for the club according to data courtesy of FotMob. Howver, amid Osimhen's impressive run of form, the Nigerian striker recently took to the media to make a promise to fans of Galatasaray. Speaking to the media outlet Parçali Sportz after the fixture against AZ Alkmaar, the 25-year-old shared a message about one of his personal goals for the club. “I said I would score a goal, and I did. I promise you one more thing: I wi...

 A stage actor passed away mid-performance during a production of "A Christmas Carol". The heartbreaking incident occurred during a November 24th presentation of A Christmas Carol at the Citadel theater in Alberta, Canada. Beloved stage actor Julien Arnold who played both Jacob Marley and Mr. Fezziwig suffered a medical emergency. Sadly despite vigorous attempts at resuscitation... the 60-year-old actor passed away. The theater has dedicated the remaining shows in honor of the late actor. Julian is remembered as a gifted performer and cherished member of the theater community.  Our thoughts are with his family and the entire theater community as they struggle to cope with this unexpected loss.

 Recently hired Ohio police officer facing charges for sending nude photos to an underage girl. Ottawa County Major Crimes Unit made a startling arrest on Wednesday, November 27th. On that date, multiple agencies executed a search warrant on the home of officer Austin Sabo in relation to a child S/Assault investigation. Investigators confiscated several electronic devices from the home. When brought in for questioning, Sabo admitted he had exchanged nude photos with a female juvenile. Austin Sabo had recently been hired on as a Walbridge, Ohio police officer. He was immediately let go after his arrest. The community was shocked at his arrest and charges. Austin Sabo was booked into the Ottawa County Detention Facility on charges of disseminating harmful matter to juveniles and illegal use of a minor in nudity-oriented material.

 ‘I Sent My Wife With a Letter' - Gowon Narrates How He Begged Abacha for Obasanjo's Life Former Head of State, Gen. Yakubu Gowon (rtd), said he pleaded with late Gen. Sani Abacha not to execute former President Olusegun Obasanjo for an alleged coup plot in 1995. "I wrote a letter to Abacha; I pleaded with him that God made him a leader to do good and not evil. I sent my wife with the letter in the middle of the night to Abacha in Abuja; I pleaded with him that such a thing should not happen. "I'm glad that soon after that, things changed. And not only that Obasanjo left prison, he became our president in 1999. "This is something that only prayers and sincerity can do. I'm happy that today myself and Obasanjo are here to celebrate the unity of Plateau," Gowon said at the maiden edition of the Interdenominational Unity Christmas Carol and Praise Festival organised by the Plateau Government. Recall that Obasanjo was arrested in 1995 by Abacha and convi...

 Sean 'Diddy' Combs accused in lawsuit of dangling woman over 17th floor balcony Sean “Diddy” Combs Hit With $10M LA Sexual Battery Suit Denied bail for the third time in his East Coast federal sex trafficking case just before Thanksgiving, Sean “Diddy” Combs has now been accused of dangling a woman off a West Coast apartment building balcony in rage eight years ago. A jury-seeking complaint was filed on November 27 in L.A. Superior Court that has a lot of details, several appearances by the Bad Boy Records founder’s ex-girlfriend Cassie Ventura (who’s alleged abuse, bruises and more by Combs are described frequently), some photos, and an ask for compensation “believed to be in excess of $10 million.” Having quickly settled an abuse and rape lawsuit from Ventura for around $30 million in November 2023, Combs has since been accused in an ever enlarging throng of dozens and dozens of civil suits of drugging, violently threatening, potentially blackmailing, beating, and raping mus...

 Press Release   President Tinubu Approves Funds for UNESCO Media and Information Literacy Institute in Nigeria President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the release of funds required for the immediate operationalization of the UNESCO Media and Information Literacy (MIL) Institute, whose hosting rights were awarded to Nigeria by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO), the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has announced. Idris stated this in Paris on Thursday during a meeting with the UNESCO Assistant Director-General for Communication and Information, Dr. Tawfik Jelassi, on the sidelines of President Tinubu’s State Visit to France. “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has been very supportive of the take-off process, and has approved the release of all funds required for the immediate operationalisation of the Institute, which will be located in the Federal Capital Territory,” Idris said.   Recalling his previo...

 STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE   PRESIDENT TINUBU CONGRATULATES NEW NUJ PRESIDENT AND EXECUTIVE TEAM   President Bola Tinubu extends his heartfelt congratulations to Alhassan Yahaya on his election as the President of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) at the 8th Triennial National Delegates Conference in Owerri, on November 27, 2024.    The President also congratulates other newly elected members of the NUJ executive. He praises the Union for organising a rancour-free election at the conference.    President Tinubu says Yahaya's overwhelming victory was a testament to the NUJ members' confidence in his leadership qualities.    He expresses optimism that Yahaya's experience, particularly as the former deputy president of the Union, will be instrumental as he leads the Fourth Estate of the Realm.    The President emphasises the importance of the press taking on its constitutional roles with a renewed patriotic passion, aligned wit...

 The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has directed the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) to enforce strict compliance with its Waterways Transportation Code. He gave the directive while commiserating with the Kogi State government, families, and victims of the recent tragic boat accident in Kupa Ebbe Village, Kupa South Local Government Area. Oyetola further instructed NIWA to prosecute violators of the safety code and emphasized the need for collective action.  He called on boat operators, as well as traditional and community leaders, to ensure that residents avoid water travel between dusk and dawn, noting that government efforts alone are insufficient to prevent such tragedies.

 162 bag first class as Okpara varsity graduates 4,781 students No fewer than 162 students made First Class honours as the Michael Okpara University of Agriculture Umudike, MOUAU, graduated a total of 4,781 students during its 12th convocation ceremony Saturday, at the university.

 NPC Launches 2024 VASA Study in Anambra,  Excludes Four LGAs  By Kelechi Achukwu-jide/Ifeanyi Nwegbu/Ogochukwu Mokwugwo  The National Population Commission (NPC) has launched the 2024 Verbal and Social Autopsy (VASA) study in Anambra State, aimed at investigating the causes of maternal and child mortality. Interestingly, four local government areas, including Onitsha North, Ayamelum, Nnewi South, and Orumba South, were excluded from the study due to their impressive records of low child and maternal deaths in previous surveys.  The Federal Commissioner representing Anambra State, Chidi Ezeoke, noted that the exclusion of these LGAs highlighted the progress made in reducing maternal and child mortality in these areas. Ezeoke, who was represented by the State Director of NPC, Dr. Kingsley Okereke, made this known during the launch of the 2024 VASA study in Awka. He explained that the VASA study was designed to investigate the causes of maternal and child mortalit...

 TESCOM CONSIDERS ELIGIBLE TEACHERS FOR APPOINTMENT AS PRINCIPALS, VICE PRINCIPALS The Chairman, Teaching Service Commission, Mrs. Victoria Mopelola Peregrino today presided over the 145th policy meeting of the Commission constituted to consider the career progression of teachers in Education District II and VI who are being considered for School Principals and Vice Principals. The Chairman advised those considered for consideration to be team players, good ambassadors of State Government, be proactive, always strive to promote synergy among teachers and make a positive difference to raise the bar of excellent results in student examinations that will justify the huge resources expended on education by the State Government.  In attendance were Board members including Mrs. Kafayat Ajenifuja representing Ikorodu Division, Mr. Abiodun Gbamgboye representing Ikeja Division and Mrs. Adeola Idowu representing Badagry Division. Also present were the Permanent Secretary of TESCOM, Pri...

  LASG RELEASES PHYSICAL PLANNING SUMMIT COMMUNIQUE The Lagos State Government has released the communiqué emanating from the recent Physical Planning Summit, themed: "Rethinking Lagos: A New Vision for a Regional and Integrated Megacity", which was held on October 15 and 16 at the Convention Centre, Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos. The communiqué, signed by the Permanent Secretary, Office of Physical Planning, Engr. Oluwole Sotire is the reflection of the views of key stakeholders, industry experts, and government officials whose participation at the summit focused on addressing critical challenges in physical planning and urban development while charting a path toward a safer, organised, and integrated Lagos. The communique expresses a collective vision for the future and highlights innovative strategies and practical solutions to ensure Lagos remains a dynamic and well-planned metropolis through public-private partnerships. Its transformative recommendations ...

 LASEPA HOSTS LAGOS INDUSTRIAL POLLUTION ABATEMENT AWARD 2024 ... Urges Industries to Join Government in Pollution Control The Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA) recently held the Lagos Industrial Pollution Abatement Award 2024 at the Adeyemi-Bero Auditorium, Secretariat, Alausa Ikeja. The prestigious event recognised industries in Lagos that have demonstrated exceptional commitment to environmental practices, particularly in managing industrial waste and emissions, contributing to a healthier and more sustainable Lagos. In his keynote address, the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Office of Environmental Services, Ministry, Dr. Gaji Omobolaji Tajudeen, reaffirmed the  State Government’s commitment to sustainability. Wahab emphasised the importance of fostering collaboration between businesses and regulators to protect the environment. He said, “Our goal is to encourage more people and businesses to ...

 LASG UNVEILS REVISED POLICY TO EMPOWER OVER 10 MILLION YOUTHS In a bid to enhance the development and empowerment of the over 10 million youths residing in the State, the Lagos State Government, through the Ministry of Youth and Social Development, has unveiled the Revised Lagos State Youth Policy. The historic event, which attracted various stakeholders within the youth ecosystem, took place on Friday at the Luxury Party Event Centre, Alausa, Ikeja. Delivering the keynote address at the event, the Secretary to the State Government, Barrister Abimbola Salu-Hundeyin described youths as "The energy, strength, hope, invention, glory, agility, compass, light, and creativity of the Greater Lagos Rising".  She underscored the central role youth play in the state's future and urged them to actively engage with the policy and complement the efforts of the state government by fulfilling their responsibilities as outlined in the document. The Commissioner for Youth and Social Deve...

 Fire Razes Ebute Ero Market in Lagos The Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service has successfully contained the fire that broke out at Ebute Ero Market, near the Police Station adjacent to Carter Bridge, Lagos Island, in the early hours of today, Saturday, November 30, 2024. The fire, which raged overnight, was prevented from spreading beyond its point of origin as a result of the swift response of Lagos firefighters from the Ebute Elefun, Dolphin, Sari-Iganmu, and Alausa stations. Their effective management of the situation minimized further damage. While the fire has been extinguished, it resulted in the loss of several lock-up shops within the bungalow structures that trade in various tools and kitchenwares. As the operation winds down with mop-up exercise, an enumeration is ongoing to determine the number of shops affected and the estimated value of the losses incurred. The investigation to uncover the exact cause of the fire is also being carried out. Fortunately, no casualties h...

 The Katsina State Government and labor unions have reached an agreement to implement a new minimum wage of N70,000 starting December 2024. The consensus was reached after nine hours of intense negotiations. Speaking after the meeting, Secretary to the State Government, Abdullahi Faskari, described the agreement as a "landmark decision" that balanced workers' demands with the government's financial capacity. Faskari said the discussions aimed to ensure the wage policy is both sustainable and responsive to the economic realities faced by the state’s workforce. #minimumwage #katsinastate #RadioNigeria

 Thank you for making me proud – Iyabo Ojo appreciates daughter, Priscilla as she bags award amid fight with Very Dark Man Nollywood actress Iyabo Ojo has hailed her daughter, Priscilla following her latest award. The young influencer had received an award at the just concluded Eloy Awards, which was held at Ballroom Oriëntal Hotel, Lagos. Iyabo who was at the event to support her mini-me, shared a video of the moment Priscilla walked on stage to receive her award. The proud mother expressed pride in her as she appreciated her daughter for always making her proud. Congratulations, Big P, my jewel of inestimable value @its.priscy on your @eloyawards thank you, baby, for always making me proud  Priscilla wrote via her comment section,  Thank you, my queen

 We are living proof that you can overcome obstacles,” – Darey Art Alade and wife celebrate 18th anniversary Nigerian singer and songwriter Dare Art Alade, known as Darey and his beautiful wife, Desola Alade, are celebrating their 18th wedding anniversary today, the 30th of November 2024. The couple shared beautiful videos and photos of their love memories via a joint Instagram post. Deola celebrated their 18th year of love, lessons and growth. She noted that their year of being together was filled with mixed emotions, such as laughter, tears, joy and everything. Speaking on the imperfections of love, the couple stated that their imperfections make it beautiful and enjoyable. They noted that marriage is filled with many ups and downs, including seasons of tears and happiness. They spoke about how the new milestone in their marriage reminded them of what real love is all about.

 Kenya and Uganda to help mediate in Ethiopia's quest for Red Sea port Kenya's President William Ruto said on Saturday he and the Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni would help mediate a dispute between Ethiopia and Somalia, which was threatening the stability of the region, Reuters reported. Landlocked Ethiopia, which has thousands of troops in Somalia to fight al Qaeda-linked insurgents, has fallen out with the Mogadishu government over its plans to build a port in the breakaway region of Somaliland, in exchange for possible recognition of its sovereignty. Somaliland has struggled to gain international recognition despite governing itself and enjoying comparative peace and stability since declaring independence in 1991. The spat has drawn Somalia closer to Egypt, which has quarrelled with Ethiopia for years over Addis Ababa's construction of a vast hydro dam on the Nile River, and Eritrea, another of Ethiopia's foes. Somaliland recognition Somaliland has struggled to ga...

 I am happy, this is a great honor – Laide Bakare bags Honorary Doctorate Degree from International University Nollywood actress Laide Bakare has added another feat to her numerous achievements as she bags a Doctorate Degree Taking to her Instagram page, the mother of three revealed that she has been given an Honorary Doctorate Degree from the American University of Peace and Governance, USA. She revealed that the ceremony is scheduled to take place today, November 30th at the University of Lagos (UNILAG). Laide expressed gratitude to one Dr Jonathan Ojadah for the nomination as she expressed how honored she is to be a recipient.

 ACCORDING TO SOURCES.  High Influx Of Illegal Pregnant Women Crossing To SA: The South African National Defense Force (SANDF) are concerned about high number of pregnant women from neighbouring countries crossing illegal into South Africa.The numbers are increasing dramatically of heavy pregnant women crossing our borders illegal to come to South Africa and give birth into South African healthcare facilities.It alleged that this high Influx of pregnant women coming to South Africa ,they want to register their children born in this country to get SASSA grants meant for South Africans. More and more women from Zimbabwe, Mozambique,Lesotho and Eswatini tried to cross our borders illegal to give birth their children in South Africa.Many have been arrested by the SANDF members on their way to SA without relevant documents. 

 A Zimbabwean man, Lovemore Sithole, has been sentenced to death in Botswana for selling his 6-year-old stepson to ritualists for R280 000. ACCORDING TO ANOTHER SOURCE: Zimbabwean Man Sentenced To Death For Selling Stepson: A Zimbabwean national, Lovemore Sithole (37) who was living in Botswana has been found guilty by a Botswana court of law of selling his stepson.It alleged that he trafficked the boy in March 2022 and his head scull was found the following month.The scull was identified through DNA test.The court has sentenced him to death for selling his 6-year-old stepson to ritualists for P280 000.He will be hanged to death.Botswana is a Southern African country that doesn't tolerate crime and has punished several criminals by hanging them with a rope.#mapulanengnews More photos below. 

 A 44-year-old Brazilian woman was apprehended at OR Tambo International Airport on Thursday, 28 November 2024, after arriving from Sao Paulo. SAPS intelligence intercepted the suspect and discovered cocaine wrapped around her upper body. The woman is facing charges of drug trafficking and is expected to appear before the Kempton Park Magistrate’s Court soon. This incident marks the second arrest of a drug trafficker with cocaine concealed on their person this week. On Sunday, a Brazilian man was arrested with R1.8 million worth of cocaine. The OR Tambo International Airport police are sending a strong message that South Africa will not tolerate drug trafficking, and they will continue to crack down on those attempting to smuggle illicit substances into the country.

 GOTV forcing Christianity on Nigerian Muslims — MURIC The Muslim Rights Concern, MURIC, has issued a warning to the international cable television network, GOTV, urging it to stop airing the Christian televangelism programme Faith on its main channel. This was contained in a statement signed by MURIC’s Executive Director, Professor Ishaq Akintola, on Friday, who described the decision as “offensive, nauseating, and denigrating” to Nigerian Muslims. According to a press statement, the Faith programme, which focuses on Christian televangelism, now occupies the top channel on GOTV, a slot that was previously used for advertisements of other programmes. MURIC argues that this change forces viewers to watch Christian content by default when they turn on their televisions, regardless of their religious beliefs. The organisation claims this action imposes Christian religious content on the Muslim population, equating it to “religious apartheid.” MURIC argued that GOTV’s choice to feature...

 Edo workers to get 13th month salary Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has approved the payment of “13th month” salary to workers in the state civil service. The governor has also approved the policy of automatic employment for first class graduates of Edo extraction from any university in Nigeria and abroad into the state civil service to boost the quality of manpower in the system. Edo Head of Service, Anthony Okungbowa, disclosed this on Friday, noting that the Graduate Development Programme was to ensure that quality manpower was brought into the system for effective and efficient service delivery that would enhance growth and development.

  Crypto mogul eats banana artwork he bought for 6.2 million dollars: 'It’s really quite good' Crypto mogul Justin Sun made headlines once again on Friday as he fulfilled a quirky promise made after purchasing a piece of conceptual art worth $6.2 million. The artwork, titled Comedian, created by Italian artist Maurizio Cattelan, features a banana taped to a wall — and Sun had pledged to eat the banana after acquiring it. True to his word, the crypto entrepreneur bit into the fruit at one of Hong Kong’s most luxurious hotels, with dozens of journalists and influencers present to witness the unusual event. Before chomping down on the banana, Sun gave a brief speech in which he praised the artwork as "iconic" and emphasised the parallels between conceptual art and cryptocurrency. He explained how both art forms challenge traditional ideas of value and ownership. "It’s much better than other bananas," Sun said after taking his first bite. "It’s really quite...

 I might drive you crxzy, but no one will have your back and love you as I do – Biodun Okeowo tells son in heartfelt note Nollywood actress Biodun Okeowo has written a note to her son Taking to her Instagram page to share photos of her with him, she stated that she might drive him crxzy, annoy and nag him, and ask too many questions, but no one will cheer louder, show up faster, have his back, or love him as she does. The mother of two went on to affirm her love for her. “I might drive you crãzy, I might annoy you, nag, monitor, shout, and ask too many questions. BUT NO ONE will cheer louder, show up faster, have your back, or love you as I do. @faiznszn Net top from @ajokeomoegba”.

 ANAMBRA POLICE SUSTAINS ONSLAUGHT TO FOIL PLANS OF CRIMINAL ELEMENTS IN THE STATE _Demobilizes one secessionist group member, rescues victim, recovers firearm, vehicles and other incriminating items_ Police Operatives from the Operations Department of the Command and attached to a VIP in the State on 29/11/2024 by 8:30 pm along Agulu/Nnobi road, demobilized one of the criminal elements in the State and recovered one pump action gun, five live cartridges, five machetes, two SUV jeeps and two pairs of desert shoe. The Operatives resisted the armed men operating in a grey-coloured Lexus ES 330 with Plate Nos: ACA 551 MA and an ash-coloured Toyota Highlander with plate number: SMK 544, who attacked their convoy unprovoked. During the gun duel, the swift response by the Joint Security Team comprising the Police and AVG Operatives led by the Divisional Police Officer Neni, Anaocha Local Government Area, made the armed men abandon their vehicle and fled the scene with bullet wounds, thro...