Renowned actor, director and movie producer, Segun Arinze, has admonished the young practitioners in the Nigerian entertainment industry to remain focused always and avoid being distracted from their goals.

This is even as Advokc Foundation and stakeholders in the entertainment world have charged Nigerian youths to be positive and effect change in their environment and society at large, regardless of challenges they are facing.

The Advock Foundation noted that it was committed to the journey and passion of changing the society and making it a better dwelling place for every Nigerian.

The calls were made recently at the Civic Fest Africa ’24, organised by Advokc Foundation, at the National Theatre, Iganmu, Lagos, where Nigerian and African youths were advised to wake up and be positive for survival. The stakeholders pointed out that it was high time Nigerians stop complaining about the state of the economy, insecurity, hike in fuel price and devaluation of the Naira and begin to look for ways to provide tangible and effective solution.

They reasoned that collaboration and impactful support of every Nigeria citizen was what can save the nation from total collapse.

The impactful gathering of over 300 attendees, which brought together passionate individuals to shape the future of sustainable citizenship, featured spoken words, poetry, a panel session with civic leaders and performances by talented artistes.

Speaking on behalf of the other founders of Advokc Foundation – Abiola Durodola and Onyinye Edyson, Habib Sheidu applauded the success of the event, noting that it aimed to leave attendees more engaged as citizens, more informed, and inspired in a fun way so that they could practise sustainable citizenship.

“The feedback we have received has consistently aligned with these objectives. We have launched an upgraded Promise Tracker platform, a civic tech tool that monitor and remind elected officials of their promises.

“This platform will also provide data for civil society actors, journalists, and even AdvoKC Foundation to continue advocating for the fulfillment of promises with high socio-economic impact made by elected officials. This means we have significant work ahead in holding elected officials accountable to their promises on a daily basis.

“We don’t want Civic Fest Africa to be just a one-time event, so we plan to have a series of build-up programs in various communities, such as Hangouts, where we will continue using art to evoke emotions and inspire active and hopeful citizenship across Africa. We are also seeking partners to help expand these activities to other parts of Africa as soon as possible.”

In his address at the event, Segun Arinze, an actor, director, producer and entertainment consultant, shared how most actors and actresses were able to do that for the fun of it. “Acting was never anything parents wanted for their children, they only did it in the 90s for passion. But now, in the modern day Nigeria, every parent wants their children to be on the screen. Now, it is not just for passion but also sustainability.”

He advised the youths that, “To survive in this current evolving media world, you have to do time much more than I did in my days. You have to be focused and not get distracted because it is very easy to get lost in the entrainment world.”

He noted that he was, and still remains, always ready to make impact in the society, helping to build up creative young minds who are passionate about their talent. Arinze advised young Nigerians to find their niche in the entertainment industry.

During the panel session moderated and coordinated by Jemimah Amonahini, a screenwriter, filmmaker and PR Executive, the entertainment stakeholders which involved Simbiat Bakare, the founder of Naija Feminist Media; Ololade Ajayi, Founder of DOHS Foundation; Enwai, a Project Developer for KNIE; Oludasa Olawal, and Adebowale Adebayo popularly know as ‘Mr Macaroni’, were able to provide answers to questions from the audience.

For Enwai, a content creator, everyone is a creative person. In her view, Nigerians don’t pay attention to very serious information but when it has the mix of entertainment, the audience will gladly pay attention and get the important message. Bakare also shared her experience on how she has been able to advocate for gender equality, effective social change, creating social consciousness and carry along people who are underrepresented in the society.

Olawale noted that every one is responsible for what he or she does with his or her talent, and advised the young minds to be impactful to people watching them, for a positive and effective change in the society.

[Leadership]

Officials of the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission, RSIEC and voters ran for their lives when police officers stormed Elekahia Primary School in Port Harcourt City local government area, on Saturday.

About 21 Hilux patrol vans with heavily armed officers drove into the school which has 10 polling units.

Officials of the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSEIC) who had set up their stands were chased out of the Ward.

One of the policemen was heard saying, ‘”Come here, remove that vest. What are you doing here? Common move!”

The policemen, some of whom were masked, also asked the officials to remove their vest and hand it to them.

The operatives also shot teargas canister directly into the crowd of people who who were running for their lives.

A policeman fired another teargas at by-standers at the entrance of the Street and residents who came out to cast their votes ran helter-skelter.

Many of RSIEC officials, voters and residents of the community ran into Boms streets in Elekahia community in confused manner, thereby creating tension in the area, as the several police patrol vans sped out of the area with many election materials.

When contacted, spokesperson of the State Police Command, Grace Iringe-Koko, said she was not aware of the incident.

“I’m not aware. You are just telling me now, ” she said.

The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, had ordered his men not to provide security during the election, citing a court order.

On the election eve, Governor Siminalayi Fubara had accused the IGP of taking orders from some politicians in Abuja.

He had also vowed to hold Egbetokun responsible if there is breakdown of law and order in the state.

However, the IGP denied the allegations in a statement issued by Force Public Relations Officer, Muyiwa Adejobi.

[DailyTrust]

The Minister of Finance, Wale Edun, has announced that the Nigerian government has begun the Naira-for-crude sale deal with Dangote Refinery from October 1, 2024.

The minister disclosed this in a statement released on the official X account of the Ministry of Finance on Saturday.

According to Edun, the commencement was inline with in line with the Federal Executive Council, FEC directive.

He said that stakeholders held a meeting on October 3rd, 2024 to review the implementation of the deal.

“The Hon. Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy announced that, in line with the Federal Executive Council (FEC) directive, the sale of crude oil and refined petroleum products in Naira has officially commenced as of October 1st, 2024.

“Following a meeting of the Implementation Committee, chaired by the Hon. Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy on October 3rd, 2024, to conduct a post-commencement review of the Crude Oil and Refined Products Sales in Naira initiative, the commencement of this strategic initiative was affirmed by key stakeholders.

“The meeting included the Hon. Minister of State, Petroleum (Oil), the Special Adviser to the President on Revenue, the Special Adviser to the President on Energy, the Chief Executive of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), the representative of the Chairman of Dangote Group, the Vice President of Dangote Group, and the management of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC), led by the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO), Chief Financial Officer (CFO), and Executive Vice President (Downstream)”.

This comes amid uncertainties that face the commencement of the deal after the October 1, 2024 kickoff date.

Recall that to ensure the stability of the price of Petrol in the Country, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in July 2024 directed NNPCL to sell crude in Naira to Dangote Refinery.

Petroleum marketers and crude refiners had hinted that the deal may lead to the reduction of Fuel pump prices which stood between N950 and N1,100 per liter.

[DailyPost]

Controversial social media influencer Vincent Martins Otse also known as VeryDarkMan (VDM) is notorious for controversial videos on social media handle, particularly on Instagram.

His outspoken nature and ability to attract attention means he has often found himself at the center of celebrity controversies.

Here are six notable feuds involving VeryDarkMan and celebrities:

1. Ashmusy:
Social media influencer, Amarchi Amusi, better known as Ashmusy, was involved in a fiery controversy with Verydarkman.

The activist dragged Ashmusy on social media for defrauding a man, and ensured that she never had rest until she refunded the N1 million she collected from the man. 

2. Bobrisky:

Bobrisky has been involved in a feud with Verydarkman for months, with both social media influencers going back and forth since March.
Recently, VeryDarkMan shared an audio recording that appeared to be of Bobrisky, claiming that he bribed officials of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

Bobrisky denied the allegations, and the EFCC summoned both him and VeryDarkMan to investigate. Bobrisky also threatened to sue VeryDarkMan for N1 billion.

3. Blessing CEO:
Self-acclaimed relationship guru, Blessing Okoro, popularly known as Blessing CEO, is another celebrity, who has had a back and forth with Verydarkman.

The two had a public altercation and even threatened one another. Verydarkman made fun of her when she was confronted by a tattoo artist about her debt.

He released a song to mock the relationship expert. He also took a dig at her for getting surgery. Blessing CEO also had her revenge when he was jailed.

4. Iyabo Ojo:

Verdyarkman and Iyabo Ojo have been at each other’s throats for a while now. There is hardly any move Iyabo makes that is not hugely criticised by Verydarkman. 

He started by calling out the actress over Mohbad’s case. Verydarkman believed the mother of two knows some truth which she has been hiding from the public. 

In 2023 the activist called Ojo ignorant for the way she handled Mohbad’s case. He also charged the actor of failing to identify the boy in dreads who broke the news of Mohbad’s demise.

Verydarkman kept up his campaign of calling people out In 2024. Even when Ojo recoiled from Mohbad’s case due to the controversy that surrounded it, he asserted that she is aware of some truth.

The controversial activist also dragged Ojo during Davido’s wedding. He claimed she wasn’t invited to the wedding ceremony but the reception. Ojo had to show proof of her invitation and chat with Davido’s sister about the wedding.

5. Paulo Okoye:

He also involved music entrepreneur Paulo Okoye in his fight with Iyabo Ojo. Paulo attempted to intervene after Verydarkman reprimanded Ojo for entering Davido’s wedding without permission and urged him to show respect for his partner.

He told him that his money does not move him and warned him to stay off his beef with tyabo so that he wouldn’t be disrespected.

Paulo on the other hand tagged Davido, Tunde Ednut, Cubana Chief priest to choose between him and the activist.

6. Obi Cubana:

Billionaire businessman, Obinna Iyiegbu, also known as Obi Cubana, was also dragged into Verydarkman and Iyabo Ojo’s feud.

Verydarkman claimed the business tycoon has done nothing tangible for the youths in Nigeria, but throws money around for online validation.

[TheNation]

The Body of Benchers is arguably the most prestigious organ of the legal profession.

It is, of course, not superior to our overarching professional body, the Nigerian Bar Association, NBA; after all, whereas all of us lawyers, both at the Bar and on the Bench, belong to the NBA, only a handful of us end up becoming Benchers.

Apart from the courts, themselves, from customary court to our most sacred temple of justice, The Supreme Court, there is no organ of our profession we respect, as lawyers, more than the Body of Benchers.

In light of his most embarrassing excesses, his decidedly unlawyerly demeanor, his shamefully ungentlemanly posturing and his obvious addiction to unnecessary controversy, the Honourable Minister for the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, and, former Governor of Rivers, Barrister Nyesom Wike, is the poster child and perfect specimen of precisely the sort of character that must not be a Bencher.

Nyesom Wike started out as an agbero, whom God, in His Infinite Mercy, Holy Magnanimity and Divine Providence, lifted up and took from the motorpark, made a local government Chairman, Secretary to The State Government, Minister of The Federal Republic, Governor for two consecutive terms, and, now once again a Minister but, unfortunately, decided to thank God for rescuing him from the motorpark by refusing to remove the motorpark from himself.

Indeed, you can force the horse to the river but not force it to drink from it, just as you might remove the agbero from the motor park, but the agbero might find it difficult to remove the motor park from himself.

I supported Wike’s nomination as Minister because he helped us win in Rivers State, but he has only succeeded in making himself an embarrassment to our government and a distraction to our President.

As to being a lawyer, the Body of Benchers must now declare Nyesom Wike as not a fit and proper person to be in their midst and sack him immediately from the most respected organ of our profession.

Onokpasa, a lawyer, was a member of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Presidential Campaign Council and the Tinubu Presidential Legal Team, TPLT, and writes from Abuja.

The Rivers State Police Command has confirmed that two separate explosions occurred in different parts of the state on Saturday.

It reported that the first explosion took place at the All Progressives Congress Secretariat along Aba Road, while the second struck the Obio/Akpor Local Government Secretariat, just outside Port Harcourt.

Grace Iringe-Koko, spokesperson for the State Police Command, stated in a press release that both explosions happened almost simultaneously.

Iringe-Koko further mentioned that police units responded swiftly, visiting the scenes and collecting samples for investigation.

Meanwhile, elections in the state have concluded in many areas, though they were disrupted in some locations by armed men dressed in police uniforms and others believed to be political thugs.

The statement read: “The Rivers State Police Command was alerted to two explosions that rocked the city of Port Harcourt on Saturday, 5 October 2024.

“The first explosion was reported at the APC Secretariat on Aba Road at approximately 3:00 AM. A security guard heard a loud bang, and upon investigation, observed three black Toyota Hilux vans speeding away from the scene. The explosion caused significant damage, destroying the gate, shattering the windows, and setting the security building on fire.

“The second explosion occurred at the Obio/Akpor Council Secretariat around 3:30 AM. Eyewitnesses reported seeing a black Toyota Hilux van and a white Toyota Sienna minivan drive past the secretariat. The occupants allegedly threw an object, suspected to be a stick of dynamite, which shattered the roof and damaged the generator house of the complex.

“In response to these incidents, the Explosive Ordnance Disposal and Anti-Bomb Squad were mobilised to both locations.

“An improvised explosive device was recovered at the APC Secretariat, and the team identified the use of incendiary materials in the arson of the security building.

The Anti-Bomb Squad collected samples from both scenes for forensic analysis, and investigations are ongoing to apprehend the perpetrators of these heinous acts. We urge the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities.

“We assure the residents of Port Harcourt that every possible measure is being taken to enhance security and ensure the safety of our community.”

[Punch]

Arsenal defeated Southampton 3-1 in a Premier League clash on Saturday, extending their unbeaten run this season.

Fresh from a commanding win over Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League, Arsenal were expected to easily dispatch winless Southampton.

However, the Saints shocked the Emirates 10 minutes into the second half when Cameron Archer netted his first Premier League goal since his summer move from Aston Villa.

The lead only lasted three minutes before Kai Havertz scored in his seventh consecutive home game.
Gabriel Martinelli was introduced after an hour and made an impact within eight minutes, volleying home from Bukayo Saka’s cross.

After assisting Arsenal’s first two goals, Saka pounced on a loose ball to score the third himself.

Meanwhile, Rodri’s season-long absence due to a serious
knee injury is expected to be a major blow to Manchester City’s hopes of retaining the title for a fifth consecutive season.

However, it was his deputy, Mateo Kovacic, who scored twice to turn the game around for the champions at the Etihad, which ended 3-2.

Fulham, unbeaten since the opening night of the season at Manchester United, took the lead thanks to Andreas Pereira’s finish from a stunning backheel assist by Raul Jimenez.

Kovacic’s deflected effort quickly brought City level, and a cleaner strike less than two minutes into the second half made it 2-1.

Jeremy Doku then smashed a shot into the top corner from outside the box to give City a two-goal cushion, which they required.

Rodrigo Muniz gave Fulham hope on 88 minutes, but City held out for a 17th consecutive win against the Cottagers.

West Ham eased the pressure on new boss Julen Lopetegui by ending a run of three home defeats at the start of the new season.

Michail Antonio, Mohammed Kudus, Jarrod Bowen, and Lucas Paqueta were on target for the Hammers in a 4-1 win over Ipswich, who are still awaiting their first Premier League victory in 22 years.

There were six goals before half-time as Brentford defeated Wolves 5-3, leaving the visitors rooted to the foot of the table.

Leicester secured their first league win of the season with Facundo Buonanotte’s strike sealing a 1-0 victory over Bournemouth.

AFP

FORMER  Director-General of the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies, Prof. Epiphany Azinge, SAN, was  Saturday, coronated as the 14th Asagba of Asaba kingdom, Delta State.

Azinge’s ascension to the throne was sequel to his emergence as Asagba of Asaba designate at an enlarged meeting of Asagba-In-Council and members of the kingdom after a selection process by the five quarters of the kingdom held on 18 August, 2024.

He was coronated at a colourful ceremony held at the Asagba palace that had former Governor of the State, Chief James Ibori, former Senator representing Delta North Senatorial district, Senator Peter Nwaoboshi, member representing Aniocha/Oshimili federal constituency at the House of Representatives, Mr. Ngozi Okolie and other notable personalities in attendance.

Azinge was crowned by the Onihe of Asaba (the traditional chief priest of the kingdom) Chief Ubaka Attoh after the traditional staff of office and the keys of the Ogwu-Uku were handed over to him.

In his remarks at the ceremony, Azinge paid glowing tribute to the departed 13th Asagba of Asaba, Prof. Chike Edozien, describing him as a father figure to him.

He promised to make justice and fairness to all as the mantra of his leadership.

Azinge said: “On the 18th of August in this hallowed palace, Asaba overwhelmingly voted me to step into the shoes of of my forebears as the 14th Asagba of Asaba. They saw in me, the qualities of a king fit enough to step into the shoes of my predecessor, the 13th Asagba of Asaba.

“Their vote, for me was a call to service; a clear expression of trust reposed in my capacity to push the frontiers of engagement in our land. Their vote was also an invitation that l should lead this land that we so much venerate to greatest heights.”

According to him, “the expectations from me are very high and l want to promise that I will never betray your trust; l will never disappoint they people of Asaba.”

The monarch pledged to uphold and promote the culture and traditions of Asaba people and also foster unity, promote inclusivity and sow seeds of love among his people.

He also pledged to strengthen all traditional authorities and institutions, adding that “I will be accessible, open to advice, encourage constructive criticism and show zero tolerance for gossip.”

Reiterating his determination to push for the establishment of a federal University in Asaba, Azinge assured that he would work vigorously with the Delta State Government.

“I will continue to support government as we strive to make Asaba the State capital of our dreams. I will network with the Federal Government to attract more institutions to Asaba”, the monarch said.

Earlier while handing over the sacred ancient authority held by his family to the new traditional ruler, Louis Edozien noted that Asaba has chosen well.

He expressed optimism that Azinge would bring to the Asagbaship his wisdom, good character, reputation and relationships.

He wished the monarch a successful, peaceful and happy reign.

[Vanguard]

Umo Eno, governor of Akwa Ibom, has handed over the office of the first lady to Helen Eno-Obareki, his daughter, following the death of his wife, Patience Umo Eno. 

The governor spoke in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom capital, on Friday during a condolence visit by Oluremi Tinubu, Nigeria’s first lady. 

Eno said his administration would sustain the office of the deceased and that Helen would help coordinate its affairs. 

“Unfortunately for me, I happen to be the first sitting governor to have lost his wife and I pray it will not happen again to anybody, it is my earnest prayer,” Eno said. 

“It is not an easy task ahead but I want to please beg you, I will continue to sustain the office of the first lady and I want to please introduce our daughter, Helen, [and] hand her over to you ma’am. She will continue to coordinate the office, your excellency.”

Eno thanked Oluremi Tinubu for her calls and prayers while his wife was ill, saying she is a mother to the entire nation who — despite party differences — relates with everyone.

“We are a PDP state but that has never crossed your mind in dealing with people. You have been consistently the mother of the nation,” he said.

“Please help extend our warmest appreciation to our father, the president and commander in chief of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”

On her part, Oluremi condoled with the governor, saying the deceased was a “peaceful, God-fearing woman”.

‘A LOSS TO THE NATION’

In a subsequent visit, Senate President Godswill Akpabio described Patience’s death as a loss to the entire nation. 

“God gives and God takes. He is a man of God, she herself was a great woman of God and for me, I believe that yes, on the earthly plane, we have lost a first lady, he has lost a wife, the family has lost a mother and lost a grandmother but they have gained an angel in heaven,” Akpabio said. 

“So my prayer is that this death will be the beginning of great legacies for Umo Eno because, as she is there now in heaven closer to God, she will be guiding, praying for him and interceding and then helping Akwa Ibom to prosper more under his tenure.”

[TheCable]

As the world celebrates the World Teachers’ Day 2024 today, October 5, the theme, “Valuing Teachers’ Voices: Towards a New Social Contract for Education,” resonates with a powerful message that has the potential to transform the educational landscape globally and, most importantly, within Nigeria. The theme highlights the pivotal role of teachers in shaping the future of education while advocating for a fresh commitment that recognizes their contributions, listens to their perspectives, and ultimately enhances their working conditions. However, while this theme is an important global call, there is an urgent need for the Federal Government of Nigeria and the 36 state governments to not only celebrate this theme but to actively domesticate it in every corner of the country.

Teachers are the bedrock of any society. Through them, the future is nurtured, knowledge is transmitted, and innovations are born. Yet, in Nigeria, these pillars of national development often bear the brunt of systemic neglect, poor remuneration, and hostile working environments. Despite the undeniable truth that no nation can rise above the quality of its education system, the Nigerian government has often treated education, and by extension teachers, with a disappointing level of disregard.

Many Nigerian teachers face chronic issues such as delayed salaries, inadequate teaching materials, dilapidated classrooms, and overcrowded spaces. These issues have become so normalized that it is now a crisis. If we are to live up to the global call of the 2024 World Teachers’ Day, we must engage the voices of teachers across the nation and listen to their demands for better pay, better facilities, and respect for the teaching profession.

The theme for this year’s World Teachers’ Day, “Valuing Teachers’ Voices: Towards a New Social Contract for Education,” offers Nigeria an opportunity to reshape its education system by starting with the very people who are the backbone of it, our teachers. But what does a new social contract mean in the Nigerian context?

In simple terms, it means an agreement between teachers, society, and the government that guarantees better working conditions, recognition of the role teachers play, and policies that are designed and implemented with teachers’ input. It means recognizing the expertise and insights teachers bring to educational reforms and creating policies that empower them, not stifle them.

For too long, Nigerian teachers have been left out of key decision-making processes that directly affect their work and the education of future generations. Federal and state governments have often made educational policies without fully consulting those on the frontlines of education, the teachers themselves. This approach has led to policies that are poorly implemented or outright rejected by the educational community because they do not take into consideration the realities on the ground. Domestication of this year’s theme requires a change in this practice.

A reformed educational system that values teachers’ voices will see teachers not just as implementers of educational policies but as active contributors to the design of those policies. Teachers understand better than anyone else the challenges students face, the gaps in the current curriculum, and the resources needed for effective learning. Therefore, the new social contract must involve the Federal Ministry of Education, State Education Ministries, and key educational bodies such as the Nigerian Union of Teachers (NUT) working hand-in-hand to ensure that teachers’ input is at the heart of any policy change.

This can be done through consultative forums through the establishments of platforms where teachers can regularly provide feedback on policies before they are implemented, ensuring that their voices are part of the decision-making process.

In a similar vein, through Teacher-Led Research Initiatives, teachers can be encouraged to conduct research on the challenges in the classroom and the Nigerian education system at large, using their findings to inform policy decisions.

Also, establishment of committees within the ministry to advocate for teachers’ welfare and ensure that their needs are prioritized in national and state budgets would go a long in addressing the challenges facing all teachers across Nigeria.

One of the ways the FG and state governments can demonstrate that they truly value teachers’ voices is by ensuring that teaching becomes an attractive profession for the best and brightest minds in Nigeria. This is not just about increasing salaries (although that is crucial), but also about offering incentives that recognize the professional standing of teachers.

In many countries, teaching is a respected and well-remunerated profession that competes with other career paths in terms of pay, prestige, and personal fulfillment. Nigeria must strive to reach this standard. The FG and state governments must review the Teachers’ Salary Structure (TSS) and ensure that teachers are adequately compensated for their invaluable contributions to society. More than this, the Teachers’ Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN) must ensure that continuous professional development is linked with incentives for teachers who take up additional training, certifications, and responsibilities.

In fact, providing attractive housing schemes, health benefits, and pension packages can also make the profession more appealing. The recent 2020 approval of a special salary structure for teachers is a step in the right direction, but this must be fully implemented across all states to have a meaningful impact.