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 Man slumps in Abuja mosque during prayers, dies in hospital   A 52-year-old man, Salihu Byezhe, has died after slumping during Subhi (early morning) prayers at a mosque in Gudaba village, Kuje Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) yesterday. Eyewitnesses said the incident occurred on Thursday after Byezhe had finished eating Sahur (pre-dawn meal ahead fasting), performed ablution and joined other worshippers for prayers. A resident of Gudaba, Musa Dantani, who was present at the scene, recalled how Byezhe suddenly collapsed mid-prayer. Dantani said: “Prayers were ongoing when he suddenly slumped and some Muslims inside the mosque quickly held him and conveyed him to the hospital. He was still breathing on the way, but unfortunately, he gave up upon arrival.” A medical doctor at the hospital in Kuje later confirmed Byezhe’s death, attributing it to high blood pressure. Our correspondent gathered that the deceased had been managing high blood pressure, which might...

 Transfer: Osimhen will join Juventus this summer – Pruzzo Roma legend Roberto Pruzzo says Victor Osimhen will join Serie A giants Juventus in the summer. Osimhen’s future is expected to be up for debate again at the end of the season after the forward failed to secure a move away from Napoli last summer. The 26-year-old was loaned to Galatasaray in September 2024. The former Lille player has been in fantastic form for the Turkish Super Lig champions this season. Osimhen has registered 22 goals and five assists in 28 appearances across all competitions for Okan Buruk’s side. He was linked with a move to Premier League giants Manchester United in January. Pruzzo said the powerful striker will move to Turin during the next transfer window. “I know that Juventus’ next striker will be Osimhen,” the former striker told Radio Radio via Sport Mediaset. “A reliable source close to the Nigerian’s entourage revealed it to me in Florence. They are certain they will be going to Turin next year...

 I date younger men for fun, says Amber Rose  American model Amber Rose recently shared her thoughts on her past romantic relationships with younger men during an appearance on the Club Shay Shay podcast. Amber Rose explained that her involvement with younger men was purely for entertainment purposes, emphasising that she never intended to pursue serious relationships with them. She noted that her younger ex-partners often went on to date other women who were considered “bad b!tches” after being with her. According to Amber Rose, this phenomenon occurs because the other women are drawn to younger men who have been in relationships with her in the past. Rose attributed this trend to the fact that younger men have grown up admiring women of her caliber and are now eager to pursue them. However, Rose made it clear that she would never commit to a serious relationship with someone significantly younger than her, instead opting to “have her fun” and move on. She said: “With girls m...

 Joeboy releases single “Taxi Driver” ahead of upcoming album Afrobeats singer Joeboy has unveiled his latest single, “Taxi Driver”, released on March 7, 2025. This new track comes as a precursor to his highly anticipated third album, “Lavida Boy”, slated for release on March 28. The singer had previously released “SMH”, a collaborative effort with long-time producer Tempoe, which coincided with the first anniversary of his record label, Young Legend. “Taxi Driver” showcases Joeboy’s signature blend of captivating melodies and heartfelt writing, solidifying his position as one of Afrobeats’ most notable romantic voices.

 Why I don't sign upcoming artistes - Tiwa Savage Renowned Nigerian singer Tiwa Savage has opened up about her decision not to sign upcoming artistes, citing the challenges and responsibilities that come with managing musicians.Nigerian sports betting apps In a recent interview with Forbes Africa, the Water and Garri hitmaker explained that she does not believe she has the “gift” to mentor and oversee other artistes under her label. Instead, she prefers to create opportunities in a different way. “Everyone always says to me, ‘When are you going to sign an artiste?’ I don’t think I have the gift to sign another artiste, because artistes are stressful. I could just be sleeping, and then I will wake up and my artist is trending for something else,” she said. The 45-year-old singer revealed that she plans to establish a music school where aspiring musicians can develop their skills before being signed by record labels that can support their careers. “But I do have the gift to help, whi...

 Palace Crisis: Oba of Benin wields axe, suspends 67 Enigie for defiance In a move that has sent shockwaves through the Benin Kingdom, the revered Oba of Benin, Ewuare II, has wielded his royal authority, suspending 67 Enigie over allegations of rebellion and defiance against the palace. The Benin Traditional Council, in a strongly worded statement on Friday, declared that the affected Enigie were guilty of “anti-palace and rebellious activities” that undermined the sacred traditional institution. Frank Irabor, Secretary of the Benin Traditional Council, confirmed the development, stating that the suspension was immediate and non-negotiable. “The decision was taken by His Royal Majesty, Oba Ewuare II, due to their blatant acts of insubordination against the revered Benin throne,” Irabor announced. The list of the suspended Enigie, including prominent figures such as Prof. Gregory Akenzua and Edomwonyi Ogiegbaen, has been circulated for official recognition and enforcement. However,...

 Something is going to happen on Iran soon – Trump President Donald Trump has reiterated that Iran would not be allowed to have nuclear weapons, amid reports of uranium upgrades by the Islamic Republic. The United Nations’ International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) recently warned of Iran’s enrichment of its near-bomb-grade uranium stockpile. Speaking to reporters at the Oval Office on Friday, the US leader indicated, “There will be interesting days ahead,” hinting at possible action against Iran. The President noted that “Iran was stone cold broke” during his first term and when he left office, “and now they have a lot of money.” “We’re down to the final strokes on Iran. We’ll see what happens, but we’re down to the final moments. Can’t let them have nuclear weapons,” he vowed. Trump contended that he would have made a deal with Iran within one month after the “rigged election of 2020,” criticising former President Joe Biden. “They were all set to make a deal, and when I lost (slur...

 IWD: WE'LL CONTINUE TO EMPOWER WOMEN, FOSTER INCLUSIVENESS, SAYS SANWO-OLU •LASG distributes thousands of climate, eco-friendly stoves  Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Friday reassured women in the State that his administration will continue to empower women through deliberate action and policies for them to be seen and heard.   He also reiterated his administration's commitment to fostering inclusiveness in ensuring gender equality for the progress and development of Lagos State in line with the THEMES+ agenda.   The Governor spoke on Friday during the 2025 International Women's Day celebration, with the theme "Accelerate Action," at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan, Lagos.   Governor Sanwo-Olu, who advised women to take their mental health seriously, also announced the distribution of thousands of climate and eco-friendly stoves by his government to women on the ground and others at the local government level from Monday.   He said the...

 STATEHOUSE PRESS RELEASE President Tinubu appoints Professor Jega as special adviser President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has appointed Professor Attahiru Muhammadu Jega, former chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission(INEC), as adviser and coordinator of the Presidential Livestock Reform. President Tinubu announced the appointment Friday, hoping to drive meaningful progress in the livestock sector and further strengthen national development efforts. Jega, former vice chancellor of Bayero University, co-chaired the Presidential Livestock Committee with President Tinubu. The committee delivered comprehensive recommendations that underscored sustainable livestock reforms. One recommendation was the creation of the Livestock Ministry, which now has a minister. Jega, 68, is a member of the International Elections Advisory Council and the pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of Sa’adatu Rimi University of Education in Kano State. He served as the chairman of INE...

 PDP Tells Akpabio to Back Off Udom Emmanuel The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has issued a stern warning to Senate President Godswill Akpabio, urging him to stop targeting former Akwa Ibom State Governor, Udom Emmanuel. The opposition party alleges that Akpabio is orchestrating a smear campaign against Emmanuel, spreading falsehoods and misrepresentations through the media. According to PDP National Publicity Secretary, Hon. Debo Ologunagba, Akpabio's latest attempt is to falsely portray Emmanuel as being indicted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), with spurious figures aimed at misleading the public. The PDP defended Emmanuel's record, highlighting his transparent and service-driven leadership, which left behind a legacy of development and prudent resource management in Akwa Ibom State. The party emphasized Emmanuel's impressive record in infrastructure, education, healthcare, aviation, power, housing, and economic development. The PDP advised Akpabi...

  Kannada film actress Ranya Rao was arrested at Bengaluru International Airport for allegedly smuggling 14.2 kg of gold worth over ₹12.56 crore from Dubai. The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) officials acted on a tip-off and caught her when she arrived on an Emirates flight on Monday night. She was presented in an economic offences court, which sent her to 14 days of judicial custody. Rao is the stepdaughter of IPS officer Ramachandra Rao, who is the Director General of Police (DGP) at the Karnataka State Police Housing Corporation. Authorities had been keeping an eye on Ranya Rao because of her frequent international trips. She had traveled to Dubai four times in 15 days, raising suspicions of illegal activities. When she returned to India, officials conducted a targeted operation and found gold bars hidden in her clothing and jacket. Reports suggest that she also wore a large amount of gold to avoid detection. During questioning, Rao claimed she was blackmailed into sm...

  A German court on Thursday convicted five people of plotting to overthrow the government in a far-right coup and kidnap the former health minister. The Koblenz Higher Regional Court sentenced the four ringleaders to prison sentences between five years and nine months to eight years. A fifth defendant received a sentence of two years and 10 months, German news agency dpa reported. The defendants, four men aged 46 to 58 and a 77-year-old woman, were accused of founding or being a member of a terrorist organization called "United Patriots" and of preparing a highly treasonous enterprise against the German government. Federal prosecutors said during the trial that the group was linked to the so-called Reich Citizens scene that rejects the legitimacy of Germany's postwar constitution and has similarities to the Sovereign Citizens and QAnon movements in the United States.

 PRESS RELEASE ANTI-TERRORISM: IGP PRIORITIZES TRAINING FOR SPECIALIZED UNITS.  As NPF-EOD Personnel Conclude Training on Explosive Ordinance Risk Education The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D, NPM, has emphasized the critical importance of continuous specialized training for personnel of the Nigeria Police Force, particularly in areas of public safety such as Explosive Ordnance Disposal. This commitment was underscored by the successful completion of a high priority Explosive Ordnance Risk Education Training of Trainers (EORE ToT) course by personnel from the Nigeria Police Force Explosive Ordinance Disposal (EOD) unit. The week-long intensive training, the fourth of its kind, which took place from 3rd to 7th March 2025, was expertly conducted by the United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS), in collaboration with valued partners including the British High Commission (BHC) and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). The EORE ToT cour...

 Anambra: NSCDC Parades Iron Scavenger Arrested In Onitsha South Local Government  By Juliana Nwachukwu  The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Anambra State in collaboration with operatives of AVG Onitsha South Local Government, has paraded one  Zakari Yahui, male , aged 25 from Misau town, Misau Local Government Area of Bauchi State, who was apprehended on March 4, at about 17:45hrs, at Silas Works Street, Fegge Onitsha while destroying and breaking the walls of the gutter, pulling out the iron rods, with an intent to sell them as scrap. This is contained in a press release by the Head, Media and Tactical Ops NSCDC Anambra State Command, SC Okadigbo Edwin for State Commandant. According to him,The State Commandant of Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Anambra State Command, Maku Olatunde has issued a stern warning to iron scavengers, also known as "ndi akpakara" or "iron kwandem", to cease destroying public and private properties  in the ...

 Human Error Major Cause of Road Crashes in Nigeria - FRSC ... As Command Seeks Media Partnership               By Uche Kalu       The Corps Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) Anambra State Command, Joyce Nnenna Alexander has stressed that human error is a significant contributor to road crashes in Nigeria, accounting for up to 80% of incidents. Alexander made this assertion during a one-day training program organized by the command for Anambra journalists on March 6, 2025, at the Godwin Ezeemo International Press Centre in Awka.  Joyce Alexander identified various factors responsible for road crashes, echoing research that suggests human, mechanical and environmental factors as responsible for road crashes especially in Anambra State, stressing that  such human factors as over speeding, tiredness, making or answering phone  calls, use of alcohol, over confidence in ones driving skills as well...

 NEWLY RECRUITED TEACHERS RECEIVE APPOINTMENT LETTERS   The Lagos State Teaching Service Commission (TESCOM) has officially presented appointment letters to newly recruited 448 post-primary school teachers.  Addressing the successful applicants, the Chairman of the State Teaching Service Commission, Mrs. Victoria Mopelola Peregrino charged the recruits to give their best and ensure they upgrade themselves through constant learning and relearning. The Chairman, who was represented by the Director, Teachers Education and Capacity Development, Mrs. Abidemi Aloba congratulated the recruits for scaling the rigorous and detailed recruitment exercises. She urged them to know their students, strengths and challenges, as well as be creative and innovative in their teaching practices. Mrs. Peregrino encouraged them to treat their students as their own, and embrace continuous learning to up scale their teaching skills. She emphasised the importance of integrating technology int...

 SANWO-OLU MOURNS FORMER PRESIDENTIAL SPOKESMAN, DOYIN OKUPE Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has mourned the passing of Dr. Doyin Okupe, the former Special Assistant on Media and Publicity to President Olusegun Obasanjo and Senior Special Assistant on Public Affairs to President Goodluck Jonathan.   He described the demise of Okupe, a physician and co-founder of Royal Cross Medical Centre, who passed away at 72 years, as a great loss to Nigeria, especially the people of Ogun State.   Governor Sanwo-Olu, in a statement issued on Friday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, said Okupe, the Director-General of Peter Obi’s 2023 Presidential Campaign and former National Publicity Secretary of the National Republican Convention (NRC), was an accomplished politician and strategist known for his bold positions and unfiltered opinions on political and national issues. Sanwo-Olu, who is the Chairman of the South-West Governors Forum, also...

VANDALISM OF ELECTRICITY INFRASTRUCTURE: LAGOS ARRESTS THREE  The Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources has commended the swift response of law enforcement officers in apprehending three vandals who were caught tampering with critical electricity infrastructure. The incident, which occurred along Glover Road, near Defence House in Ikoyi witnessed the suspects allegedly digging out and cutting power cables - an act that poses a severe threat to public safety and electricity supply in the area. The Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, Mr. Biodun Ogunleye, while condemning the act of vandalism, emphasised its detrimental impact on electricity supply and public safety.  “The destruction of power infrastructure is a serious offence that disrupts essential services, endangers lives, and slows down economic activities. The government will not tolerate such criminal acts, and we will ensure that those responsible face the full weight of the law,” he stated. He noted that ...

 Police Launch Search for Abducted Abia Billionaire as Gunmen Kill Two The Abia State Police Command has confirmed the kidnapping of Lawson Obasi, a prominent oil and gas magnate, along with the killing of his driver and a police escort. According to a police statement on Friday, Sergeant Judge Gubi reported that on March 4, officers from the Special Protection Unit (SPU), Base 6, Port Harcourt, were escorting Chief Obasi when they were ambushed while traveling through Azumini Ndoki, Ukwa East Local Government Area. At around 7:00 PM, unidentified gunmen in a dark blue Sienna intercepted their convoy at Mkap Jekere Ndoki, opening fire. While the officers attempted to repel the attack, another group of assailants forcibly abducted Chief Lawson, leaving his driver and another individual dead. Following the attack, tactical teams were deployed to comb the area in a bid to rescue Obasi unharmed. Abia State Commissioner of Police, CP Danladi Isa, personally visited the scene alongside s...

 Anambra Nurses Protest Poor Pay, Working Conditions, and Alleged Maltreatment Nurses in Anambra State, under the National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives (NANNM), have staged a protest over poor working conditions in government-owned health facilities. The demonstration took place at Nurses House in Okpuno, where the nurses gathered to voice their grievances and urged their state leadership to relay their concerns to the government. Key issues raised include the poor implementation of the Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS), making their earnings the lowest among neighboring states. The nurses decried the non-payment of full salaries, saying: They have never received more than 60% of their wages, despite the minimum wage increase. Many work in overcrowded hospitals, where wards meant for 20 patients now house over 80. Their hazard allowance remains at ₦3,000, far below the statutory ₦30,000. They appealed to the state government, through the Commissioner for...

 Community Activist Pamela Mabini Fatally Shot in Gqeberha Pamela Mabini, a well-known community activist and whistleblower in the Timothy Omotoso rape and human trafficking case, was fatally shot in the driveway of her home in KwaZakhele. Mabini, a vocal supporter of the victims in Omotoso’s trial, had previously survived an assassination attempt in May 2018 after receiving multiple threats. Despite the danger, she remained committed to seeking justice, regularly attending court proceedings and offering support to witnesses. Her murder has sent shockwaves through the community, raising concerns about the safety of activists and whistleblowers. Authorities have yet to confirm whether her killing is linked to her involvement in the case. Investigations are ongoing, and community leaders have called for swift action to bring those responsible to justice. One more photo below. 

 Customs Strengthens Border Security Through Technology Integration ...As CGC Adeniyi Engages National Security Adviser on Strategic Collaboration The Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, has reaffirmed the Nigeria Customs Service’s (NCS) commitment to leveraging advanced technology for enhanced border security. This was the focus of discussions during his courtesy visit to the National Security Adviser (NSA) Malam Nuhu Ribadu on Thursday, 6th March 2025, where he highlighted NCS's efforts in deploying Geospatial technology to strengthen surveillance, intelligence gathering, and enforcement across Nigeria’s land and maritime borders. Speaking during the visit, CGC Adeniyi emphasised the crucial role of technology in modern border management, noting that the Service has made significant progress in integrating cutting-edge solutions to combat smuggling, trafficking, and other transborder crimes. “Technology remains the key to effective border management ...

 FG Strengthens Partnership with France to Boost Economic Growth The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening economic ties with France to foster mutual prosperity. Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, made this known during a visit from French Ambassador Marc Fonbaustier in Abuja. Idris praised France’s role in facilitating President Bola Tinubu’s 2024 state visit and emphasized the importance of implementing Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) signed during the trip. He assured that Nigeria’s ongoing reforms would drive sustainable growth and welcomed continued French support. Fonbaustier reiterated France’s commitment to deepening collaboration and invited Idris to the Nigerian Business Forum in Paris on April 10, 2025, highlighting the potential for attracting French investors to Nigeria.

  The lawsuit filed by Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, challenging his removal as Speaker of the Lagos House of Assembly, continued on Friday at the State High Court in Ikeja. Justice Yetunde Pinheiro has adjourned the case until Monday, March 10, to hear all new and pending applications. The judge ordered all parties to file and serve necessary processes, enabling the court to hear all pending applications at the next adjourned date. Notably, the Deputy Speaker and 36 other lawmakers are seeking to dismiss the suit or strike it out, arguing that the matter has become an academic exercise. Two new counsels, Olusola Idowu (SAN) and Clement Onwuenwunor, have joined the suit, representing some lawmakers and filing their applications. After listening to all counsel submissions, Justice Pinheiro adjourned the matter until Monday in the interest of justice. Outside the courtroom, Afolabi Fashanu (SAN), counsel to Speaker Obasa, stated that his client is challenging not only his removal for not fol...

  Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has emphasized the importance of prioritizing power issues in the South East region, stressing that electricity is vital for economic development. He made this remark while receiving a delegation from the South East Development Commission (SEDC) on Thursday. Otti urged the SEDC board and management to focus on investing in power, highlighting that industrialization and manufacturing sectors cannot thrive without adequate electricity supply. "You are the regional development body representing all of us. A major area that requires critical attention is power—electricity," he said. The governor also revealed ongoing discussions with Interstate Electrics Limited to acquire their equity in the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC). This move aims to extend electricity to parts of Abia State not currently covered by Geometric Power. Additionally, Otti commended President Bola Tinubu for approving the establishment of SEDC, stating that it w...