PINK REPUBLIC/ MY BLOG IS A STORY MARATHON.

 A region in Russia, Karelia, has announced a scheme to pay female students under 25 years old 100,000 rubles (around Rs 81,000) for giving birth to a healthy baby, according to The Moscow Times.  The policy, set to take effect from January 1, is aimed at tackling Russia’s declining birth rate. To qualify, the mother must be a full-time student at a local university or college, under 25 years old, and a resident of Karelia. The law specifies that mothers of stillborn babies will not be eligible for the payment, but it remains unclear if the policy applies in cases of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome or to mothers of children with disabilities. The policy also does not address whether additional support will be provided for childcare costs or postpartum recovery, raising questions about its long-term effectiveness. Karelia is one of at least 11 regions in Russia offering financial incentives to female students for having children. However, experts have criticized the move as a shor...

 A woman from Bulandshahr, Uttar Pradesh, has accused her husband of permitting two of his friends to sexually assault her over the past three years.  The 35-year-old woman, who is currently pregnant, approached the police with her complaint, alleging that her husband, who works in Saudi Arabia, was paid by his friends for the abuse. The woman stated that the two men recorded the assaults on their phones, and her husband would watch the videos while in Saudi Arabia. She revealed that the abuse began during her husband’s visit home three years ago and continued even after he returned to work abroad. The woman said she remained silent for the sake of her four children, as her husband threatened to divorce her if she spoke out. According to the woman’s brother, the family only learned about the ordeal recently when her husband returned home, leading to an argument. This gave her the courage to file a complaint. The woman has been married to the accused since 2010, and her husband...

 EFCC Arrests Four Chinese, 101 Others for Suspected Internet Fraud in Abuja   In its ongoing efforts to clean the nation of internet fraud and other acts of corruption, operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC,  have arrested four Chinese and 101 Nigerians in a business apartment in the Gudu axis of Abuja. They were arrested on Thursday,  January 9, 2025. The suspects, comprising 67 male( including four Chinese) and 38 female  were  allegedly  involved in hotel review job scam targeting victims and hotels in Europe and other parts of the world. The suspects will be charged to court upon conclusion of investigations.  More photos below. 

 Benue Government Orders Former Lobi Stars Officials to Refund N2.4bn The Benue State Government has directed three former vice chairmen of Lobi Stars Football Club in Makurdi to refund a total of N2.4 billion into the state’s coffers. This decision follows a white paper report based on a forensic audit of the club’s finances between January 2020 and September 2024. The audit, which was initiated by Governor Hyacinth Alia on October 7, 2024, found discrepancies in the club's income, revealing that while N3.7 billion was generated during the period, only N1.3 billion was accounted for. The three former officials, Mike Idoko, Emmanuel Taman, and Dominic Iorfa, are each required to refund various amounts based on their respective tenures, with Idoko owing N243 million, Taman N434.3 million, and Iorfa N1.77 billion. The audit committee recommended several measures to improve the club’s management, including registering Lobi Stars as a full company responsible for generating revenue and...

 Profile of Abimbola Owoade, Newly Appointed Alaafin of Oyo In a landmark decision, Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has officially appointed Prince Abimbola Owoade as the new Alaafin of Oyo. This prestigious role marks the pinnacle of Prince Owoade’s remarkable career, community involvement, and dedication to preserving Yoruba culture. Prince Owoade is a Nigerian-Canadian entrepreneur, philanthropist, and project management professional, hailing from the esteemed Owoade-Agunloye royal family of Oyo town. He is a descendant of Aremo Aderounmu Iyanda Owoade from Agure Compound in Oyo town. He has a strong academic foundation, having completed his secondary education at Baptist High School in Saki, Oyo State in 1992. Owoade pursued Mechanical Engineering, obtaining his National and Higher National Diplomas from The Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro and The Polytechnic, Ibadan. He furthered his studies in the United Kingdom, earning a BSc and MSc in Mechanical Engineering from the Universi...

 Niger State Exempts Religious Sites, Emir’s Palaces, Senior Citizens, and Others from Land Use Charges The Niger State Government has announced exemptions for places of worship, senior citizens' homes, correctional facilities, Emir’s palaces, and the residences of elderly citizens from its upcoming land use charges. Commissioner for Lands and Survey, Barr Maurice Bello Magaji, explained that the government is introducing these charges to improve land administration. He noted that the charges would be based on property assessments, considering factors such as location, purpose, and property type. This move is part of efforts to consolidate land and property rates in line with the State Revenue Harmonisation Law, aimed at boosting the state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) and enhancing social amenities. Despite the new charges, properties such as religious institutions, elderly care homes, correctional facilities, Emir’s palaces, and senior citizens' residences will remain ...

 Uche Nnam Okwukwu Elected President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide Uche Nnam Okwukwu, an activist lawyer from Rivers State, has been elected as the President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide during the ongoing convention in Port Harcourt. Okwukwu emerged unopposed after being chosen by the General Assembly of Ohanaeze Ndigbo.  In his acceptance speech, he expressed gratitude for the trust placed in him and outlined his priorities, including advocating for the release of IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu, restructuring Nigeria, and uniting the Igbo people. Okwukwu also committed to addressing key issues such as political prisoners, economic development, and the creation of Anioma State.

 Man arrested on suspicion of starting Los Angeles fire as California death toll hits 10 Arsonist with flamethrower’ tied up by LA residents in citizens arrest An alleged arsonist suspected of sparking the latest fire in Los Angeles was found with what neighbours described as a “large propane tank or flamethrower”. Residents bundled the man to the ground and tied him up with zip ties in order to carry out a citizens’ arrest before police arrived at the scene in the West Hills. “We really banded together as a group,” Renata Grinshpun told KLTA 5 TV channel. “A few gentlemen surrounded him and got him on his knees.” Charles Dinsel, the senior lead officer, confirmed that a man was caught trying to start a fire. The suspect is reported to be homeless and in his 30s. The cause and reason behind the Kenneth fire which broke out on Thursday afternoon still remains unclear, but officials say it is “being investigated as a crime”. By 11pm on Thursday, the fire had burned through more than ...

 Naira Abuse: Policeman in Viral Video with Okoya’s Sons Detained for Misconduct The Nigeria Police Force has detained an unnamed officer featured in a viral video with Wahab and Raheem Okoya, sons of billionaire businessman Chief Razaq Okoya, engaging in naira abuse. Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, disclosed this on his X handle on Friday, stating that the officer’s actions were unethical and violated the core values of the police. He assured the public that disciplinary measures are being taken to address the misconduct. Adejobi wrote, *“The policeman captured in the recent viral video involving the sons of Lagos businessman Chief Okoya, where naira was being abused, has been identified and detained for disciplinary action. “The conduct of the officer has been condemned as unethical. We remain committed to upholding the sanctity, credibility, and core values of the police. Thank you.” The incident, captured in a video that has drawn widespread criticism, shows ...

 NSC reassigns key personnel to revitalize National Sports Federations In a bid to reposition Nigeria's sports industry for enhanced performance and economic growth, the National Sports Commission (NSC) has announced the reassignment of Secretary-Generals and officers across various National Sports Federations. This was contained in a statement Issued by the Special Adviser Media to the Director General, National Sports Commission (NSC), Kola Daniel. According to the Director of the Federation of Elite Athletes, Olumide Bamiduro, this strategic move aligns with the vision of NSC leadership under Alhaji Shehu Dikko and Hon. Bukola Olopade. “The mandate is clear,” Bamiduro stated. “These changes are designed to deliver results, attract private and corporate investments, and drive the growth of our sports economy.”  The NSC has issued a directive to its Federation Establishment and Appointment Department to implement the new postings effectively. This decision reflects the Commis...

 Olamide Becomes First African Rapper to Reach 1 Billion Spotify Streams Nigerian rap icon Olamide has achieved a groundbreaking milestone, surpassing 1 billion career streams on Spotify. This achievement solidifies his status as a trailblazer in African music, fueled by his unique fusion of Afrobeats and high-profile collaborations. Last year, Olamide made history as the first African rapper to earn a Grammy nomination. His hit track with Asake, Amapiano, was shortlisted in the debut Best African Music Performance category, though the award ultimately went to Tyla’s Water.

  Makinde Approves Prince Abimbola Owoade as New Alaafin of Oyo Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has officially approved the appointment of Prince Abimbola Owoade as the new Alaafin of Oyo. The announcement was made on Friday through a statement by Dotun Oyelade, the Commissioner for Information and Orientation. According to Oyelade, Owoade's selection followed extensive consultations and traditional divinations by the Oyo kingmakers, the Oyomesi. “Prince Abimbola Akeem Owoade has been recommended by the Oyomesi after thorough consultations and divinations, and his appointment has been approved by Governor Seyi Makinde,” the statement read. Ademola Ojo, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, remarked that this appointment resolves the socio-legal disputes that arose after the passing of the former Alaafin, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III, on April 22, 2022. “This decision ends the controversies surrounding the transition of the late Oba Adeyemi. We urge Oyo resident...

 Appeal Court Bars Federal High Court from Intervening in Kano Emirate Dispute In a 2-1 split decision, the Court of Appeal in Abuja has ruled that the Federal High Court in Kano lacks jurisdiction to preside over the legal dispute involving the Kano Emirate. The appellate court concluded that the matter falls under the jurisdiction of the Kano State High Court, as it pertains to chieftaincy issues specific to Kano State. Delivering the lead judgment on Friday, Justice Gabriel Omoniyi Kolawole asserted that the Federal High Court has no authority to adjudicate on such matters and directed that the case be returned to the Kano State High Court, which is the appropriate venue. Presiding Justice Mustapha Mohammed and another Justice concurred with Justice Kolawole on the issue of jurisdiction, agreeing that the Federal High Court should not be involved in the matter. However, they disagreed with Kolawole's directive to return the case to the Kano Chief Judge for reassignment. Instead,...

 Two Edo Fire Service Officials Hospitalized After Building Collapse in Benin City Two fire service officials in Edo State have been hospitalized after sustaining injuries in a building collapse while responding to an emergency. The incident occurred early Friday at the Evbuotubu community in Benin City, as the officials were battling a fire that had engulfed the structure. According to eyewitnesses, the building collapsed on the officials during their firefighting efforts. As of the time of this report, it remains unclear whether the injured personnel belong to the Edo State Fire Service or the Federal Fire Service. When contacted, the Public Relations Officer of the Federal Fire Service in Edo, Deputy Superintendent Asimu Sumaila, stated that he was yet to be briefed on the incident. He assured reporters he would provide updates after receiving details from the operational team. More information to follow.

 Zimbabwe drought leaves 19 hippos dead Nineteen hippos have died in Zimbabwe in the past three months most likely due to a lack of adequate food because of severe drought, according to wildlife authority. Samples from the dead animals showed no trace of abnormalities or anthrax poisoning, ZimParks said in a statement, AFP reported. However, an investigation found that the hippos had moved 10 kilometres (six miles) from their habitat in search of food, it said. The "findings strongly indicate that the majority of mortality cases up to this point are directly linked to severe nutritional deficits rather than infectious diseases," the statement added. Zimbabwe is among several Southern African countries that have been hit hard by drought over the past months. Rain had only started falling in recent days, ZimParks said. About half of the hippo population in the area, known as the mid-Zambezi region, was found to be in poor condition with pelvic bones and spines showing, which is...

 SADC ready to help Mozambique end poll crisis: SA South Africa and a regional bloc are ready to help Mozambique move through the ongoing political crisis in the country, the South African president said, Anadolu Agency reported. “We are watching very closely what is happening in Mozambique, and obviously Mozambique is such a close neighbour to us, a very good trading partner, and member of the Southern African Development Community (SADC),” Cyril Ramaphosa told reporters in Cape Town. Ramaphosa said SADC members are prepared and willing to give Mozambique the much-needed support to enable it to navigate its way out of the current political challenges they are facing. Mozambique has been gripped by protests since October 21, with the opposition disputing the victory of 47-year-old Daniel Chapo of the ruling FRELIMO party who has been declared winner of the October 9 presidential election. Chapo got 65% of the vote, defeating Mondlane who got only 24%. Mondlane, who had been in a se...

 Trump Plans Meeting with Putin Amid Ongoing Ukraine Conflict President-elect Donald Trump announced Thursday that plans are underway for a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, signaling a potential diplomatic move amid the ongoing war in Ukraine. Speaking at a gathering with Republican governors at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida, Trump stated, "He wants to meet, and we’re setting it up. President Putin has even said publicly that he wants this meeting, and we need to end this bloody mess." The announcement comes just days before Trump is set to take office, following his campaign promises to seek a resolution to the conflict in Ukraine, which has been under Russian invasion since February 2022. Despite his rhetoric, Trump has not outlined any specific proposals for a ceasefire or peace agreement. He has also been vocal in criticizing the extensive military aid—over $65 billion—provided to Ukraine under President Joe Biden's administration. Trump has frequentl...

  𝐂𝐁𝐍 𝐇𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐬 𝐀𝐩𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐯𝐚𝐥 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐄𝐱𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐨𝐟 𝐄𝐱𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐜𝐞𝐞𝐝𝐬 𝐑𝐞𝐩𝐚𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has announced the suspension of approvals for the extension of export proceeds repatriation on behalf of exporters. This directive which was issued through a circular dated January 8, 2025, take immediate effect. The suspension applies to both oil and non-oil export transactions. According to the apex bank, the move aims to enforce compliance with existing foreign exchange regulations. The circular signed by the acting Director of the CBN’s Trade & Exchange Department, W.J. Kanya, outlined provisions in the Foreign Exchange Manual (Revised Edition, March 2018) as the basis for the decision. These provisions include Memorandum 10A (23a) and Memorandum 10B (20a). “With effect from the date of this circular, the Central Bank of Nigeria will no longer approve requests for extension of repatriation of export proceeds by Authoriz...

  The Senate on Thursday took on the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, over how much the Federal Government has saved and spent since the removal of fuel subsidy in June 2023. Edun, who appeared before the Senate for the defence of the 2025 budget, was also taken to task on how much the Federal Government is spending on debt servicing. In a dramatic move, however, the minister, who appeared to be unprepared for these questions, hurriedly requested a closed-door session with the lawmakers to provide answers. Edun’s trouble began when questions were asked by some members of the appropriation committee on the state of implementation of the 2024 budget, especially the capital component. While struggling for answers, Senator Abdul Ningi (PDP, Bauchi Central) urged Edun to explain how proceeds from fuel subsidy removal were spent in the 2024 fiscal year. Ningi asked, “What is the budget performance achieved so far for the 2024 fiscal year, particula...

 𝐋𝐏 𝐂𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐎𝐮𝐭 𝐚𝐬 𝐃𝐞𝐟𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐋𝐚𝐰𝐦𝐚𝐤𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐃𝐨𝐝𝐠𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐭 𝐏𝐚𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐬 The Labour Party has said it is having difficulty serving court papers on the six members of the House of Representatives who dumped the party for the ruling All Progressives Congress. The leadership of the party lamented that the Reps were evading the service of the court papers in order to frustrate the suit filed by the LP, seeking to declare their seats vacant. The development was revealed to newsmen on Thursday by the LP National Publicity Secretary, Obiora Ifoh, and the party’s National Youth Leader, Kennedy Ahanotu, The party’s legal battle aims to recover the seats of the six defected Reps and secure the refund of all salaries and allowances they have received as lawmakers. In December 2024, Ajang Iliya, the member representing Jos South/Jos East Federal Constituency in Plateau State, announced his defection to the APC. His defection raised the total number of lawmakers lost...

Former Inspector General of Police, Sir Mike Okiro has withdrawn from the race to occupy the position of President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo. Okiro made the announcement during a press briefing in Enugu on Thursday. He hinged his decision on the order of an Enugu State High Court barring him from contesting in the election. The court had given an injunction barring the former Police Chief based on a suit before it which claimed that he (Okiro) is from Imo State and not Rivers where the position was zoned to. In adherence to the order, Okiro has now announced his withdrawal from the race.

  The embattled National Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Samuel Anyanwu says he is the authentic holder of the office. Anyanwu made this declaration when he appeared on ‘Nigeria Right Now,’ a current affairs programme anchored by Dickson Iroegbu. PDP is embroiled in a fresh crisis as both Anyanwu and Sunday Ude-Okoye, a chieftain of the party, are laying claim to the position of the national secretary. The Court of Appeal in December ruled that Ude-Okoye should replace Anyanwu as the PDP national secretary. Recall that the south-east zonal executive committee of the party nominated Udeh-Okoye to replace Anyanwu after he became the PDP gubernatorial candidate in Imo in 2023. Anyanwu was said to have obtained several court injunctions preventing his removal from office. However, in a judgment delivered on December 20, 2024, the Appeal Court judge, Ridwan Abdullahi, dismissed the judgment of the high court, which prevented Anyanwu’s removal, for lacking in merit”. Foll...

  Nasarawa State Governor, Abdullahi Sule, has stated that the Progressives Governors’ Forum (PGF) has no role to play in the ministerial nomination issues surrounding former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai. Speaking during an interview on Wednesday, Sule, a member of the PGF, clarified that El-Rufai remains a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), despite the National Assembly’s rejection of his ministerial nomination in August 2023. “El-Rufai has not left our party; he is still part of our party,” Sule affirmed. He explained that the circumstances leading to El-Rufai’s nomination and eventual rejection were outside the purview of the PGF or the Nigeria Governors’ Forum. “What led to his (El-Rufai’s) nomination, what led to his rejection by the Senate or by the security agencies, to be honest with you, are not issues we discussed either at the Progressives Governors’ Forum or even the Nigeria Governors’ Forum. They are not issues because what doesn’t concern us, we c...

  The Senior Pastor of the Omega Power Ministry, Chibuzor Chinyere, has expressed displeasure over the demolition of a section of the church located along the Apapa-Oshodi Expressway, Lagos by officials of the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority. The demolition which was carried out on Wednesday was said to be meant for development purposes. In a video obtained by newsmen, pupils of the church’s free school were seen displaced outside the premises of the demolished building, while some of them were being consoled by their teachers. A mild drama had ensued between some of the church members and officials of LAMATA who were unperturbed by the resistance put up by the church as they continued with the demolition. While the confrontation was going on, the cleric raised the alarm on the development via his Facebook page, citing the conditions of the beneficiaries of the free school affected by the demolition. He wrote, “Happening Now. Lagos State Government demolishing OPM free ...