Bandits in Zamfara State have released a new video showing its members celebrating the recent Eid-el-Fitr festival in Munhaye community in the state.
This was disclosed on Thursday by Zagazola Makama, a counter-insurgency expert and security analyst in Lake Chad, in a post on his X handle.
DAILY POST reported that Muslims in Nigeria joined their counterparts in other countries on Wednesday to mark Eid-El-Fitr, signalling the end of the one-month Ramadan fast.
The Federal Government also declared Tuesday and Wednesday public holidays and later extended the public holiday for the Eid-El-Fitr celebration to Thursday.
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Bandits Releases Eid Celebration Video in Zamfara
— Zagazola (@ZagazOlaMakama) April 11, 2024
Bandits in Zamfara state have released a new video showing its members celebrating the recent Eid-el-Fitr festival in Munhaye community in Zamfara state. pic.twitter.com/0orT2lKZ4q
Super Falcons captain, Rasheedat Ajibade has debunked claims the side adopted a defensive approach in their clash against South Africa in Pretoria on Tuesday.
Randy Waldrum’s side held the Banyana Banyana to a 0-0 draw in the second leg of the 2024 Olympic Games fourth round qualifying tie.
The result ensured their passage to Paris 2024 following a 1-0 aggregate win
Ajibade, who scored the decisive goal in the first leg, claimed the Super Falcons played to win in South Africa.
“We didn’t hold back, we wanted to score goals,” the Atletico Madrid forward told reporters.
“We respect South Africa, but we wanted to play the way we played in the first leg at home in Abuja.”
[DailyPost]
The Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) has banned the shooting of movies in riverine areas and also suspended filmmaker Adanma Luke following the death of actor Junior Pope Odonwodo.
Junior Pope was among the persons who drowned while returning from a shoot for a movie called “Another Side of Life” which was being produced by Adanma. Their boat capsized around Cable Point at the waterside of River Niger in Asaba, Delta State.
While there were initial claims that Junior Pope was revived, the AGN said the actor is dead, prompting its suspension of shoots involving riverine areas and boat rides.
“Following the tragic incident of boat mishap that claimed the life of Mr John Paul Odonwodo aka Junior Pope and four other crew members at the waterside of River Niger Cable point Asaba on 10 April 2024 on a movie set titled ‘The other side of Life’ produced by Adanma Luke,” the AGN president Emeka Rollas said in a statement on Thursday.
“The leadership of the Guild has taken the following decisions: (1) All films that involve riverine areas and boat riding are at this moment suspended indefinitely, (2) no shoot on all locations Nationwide on Thursday, 11 April 2024.
“(3)The film titled ‘Another Side of Life’ is suspended indefinitely (4) No actor is allowed to work with Adamma Luke as a producer till further notice. (5) While we keep searching for the bodies of the remaining persons, may their souls rest in peace.”
The move is coming after the AGN president said the actor was alive after initially confirming Junior Pope’s death. But hours later, he deleted the post on his Instagram handle, posting another one where he said reconfirmed the actor’s death.
“It’s so so sad that our joy was shortlived. My first post was out of excitement when we noticed his tingling fingers. Two notable hospitals tried their best to revive him but to no avail. God knows the best,” he said.
“We finally lost him. Mr Friday’s corpse has been identified but three other corpses are yet to be found.”
Investigators from Lagos and Kano states have initiated a search for a 36-year-old Bureau De Change operator named Abubakar Mannir. He is accused of fleeing with $737,015.00 belonging to an Indian national, Manas Das, in Kano.
The suspect is believed to have fled from Kano to Lagos after the theft, and authorities have extended their search efforts accordingly.
Police spokespersons in both Kano and Lagos have confirmed that a manhunt is underway for the suspect in connection with the theft.
The victim, identified as the Chief Executive Officer of Allkraft Technology and Industries Limited, had contacted Mannir for the purchase of $900,000.
Mr Das transferred the naira equivalent from his company’s Zenith Bank account to the BDC operator in December 2023.
However, trouble arose when Mannir allegedly paid only $162,985 through Emirates Booth, his firm, and then disappeared without settling the remaining balance of $737,015.00.
Kano State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Abdullahi Haruna, stated that investigations are ongoing, with efforts expanded to track down the suspect in Lagos.
The General Manager of Allkraft Technology and Industries Limited, Abdulrahman Abubakar, provided further details, mentioning a scheduled meeting that never occurred, leading to suspicion and subsequent reporting of the case to the police.
Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, Benjamin Hundeyin, confirmed that the command is searching for the fugitive Bureau De Change operator.
An eyewitness has spoken about the cause of the boat accident which led to the unfortunate demise of popular actor, John Paul Odonwodo popularly known as Junior Pope on Wednesday, April 10.
The actor lost his life after drowning while on a boat on his way back from the movie set.
According to the eyewitness, the boat carrying Jnr Pope hit another boat carrying other passengers resulting in the collapse of both boats in the river.
The eyewitness said the rider of the boat Jnr Pope was on, failed to see an oncoming boat on time, hence the clash. Unfortunately there were no divers around to help rescue the victims.
The witness also claimed that some of the victims held unto the rope of a boat after it capsized and later rested on the boat while waiting for help. Fortunately, help arrived on time as people on another boat spotted them and rescued them.
So far, three bodies including Jnr Pope's have reportedly been recovered, while a search is ongoing to recover the bodies of other victims .
Athletics has become the first sport to offer prize money to Olympic champions, announcing that the 48 gold medallists in Paris this year will earn $50,000 each to end a 128-year tradition.
Although the concept of purely amateur competition has long since disappeared from the modern Olympics with athletes often receiving payments from sponsors and professionals taking part for years, the World Athletics (WA) decision is a major shift.
WA President, Sebastian Coe, said there had been no discussion with the International Olympic Committee, only that his organisation had given the IOC a heads-up shortly before announcing the $2.4 million prize pot.
“While it is impossible to put a marketable value on winning an Olympic medal, or on the commitment and focus it takes to even represent your country at an Olympic Games, it is important we make sure some of the revenues generated by our athletes are directly returned to those who make the Games the global spectacle that it is,” Coe told reporters.
“I don’t believe this is remotely at variance with the concept that the IOC often talks about, which is recognising the efforts that our competitors make for the overall success of the Games.”
Norway’s Olympic 400m hurdles champion Karsten Warholm welcomed the news.
“I think it’s good so I want to salute them for it,” Warholm said in an interview. “It doesn’t change my motivation to win because for the Olympics I’m not in it for the money. The gold medal is worth a lot more to me personally.”
The IOC said it was up to each International Federation (IF) and National Olympic Committee (NOC) to determine how to best serve their athletes and the development of their sports.
“The IOC redistributes 90% of all its income, in particular to the NOCs and IFs. This means that, every day, the equivalent of $4.2 million goes to help athletes and sports organisations at all levels around the world,” the ruling body said.
A total of $540 million was allocated to the 28 sports at the Tokyo Games, with World Athletics receiving the most at $40 million.
According to Tana River County Commander Ali Ndiema, the 51 people on board the Umma Express bus were travelling from Garissa to Nairobi at 11:30pm when the bus was swept away by floods at Lager Areli.
Mr Ndiema notes that the driver of the bus, Hassan Rage, dared to cross the flooded section against the advice of other drivers, only for the bus to be swept away by the heavy waters 50 metres off the road.
"He took the risk and risked the lives of more than 50 people, which is an offence punishable by law," he said.
However, the district police commander has confirmed that most of the passengers escaped unhurt and a rescue operation was underway for those stuck on the roof of the bus.
Mr Ndiema has called on drivers plying the Garissa-Nairobi route to be alert and avoid driving on flooded sections to avoid killing their passengers.
"These are sections that were broken during the El Niño and should be avoided at all costs when they are flooded so that we do not lose lives on this road," he said.
The Kenya National Highways Authority has since issued a warning to commuters along the Garissa-Nairobi highway (A3) due to flooding in the Mororo area between Madogo and the Tana River Bridge.
According to KenHa, the flooding has affected one lane of the road, posing a high safety risk to road users.
Other roads currently being monitored by KenHa include the Garissa-Mombasa highway at Bilbil and Charidende in Tana River County, which were washed away by the El Niño floods.
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The Nigerian movie industry, Nollywood, has been hit with a spate of deaths of prominent actors in the year 2024. Ace thespians, such as Mr. Ibu and Sisi Quadri are the latest.
The industry, over the years, has lost numerous seasoned veterans and budding talents.
As part of tributes to the late actors, it is imperative to reflect upon the invaluable contributions they made to the film industry in Nigeria.
Here is the list of Nollywood actors that have died in 2024 so far:
Olofa Ina
Veteran Yoruba actor Deji Aderemi, popularly known as Olofa Ina, died on Thursday, January 4. He died at the age of 73.
According to reports, the thespian died of cancer in Lagos State.
Ethel Ekpe
Veteran actress, Ethel Ekpe, who adorned the Nigerian entertainment screen for years, died on Wednesday, February 7, in Lagos State.
Ekpe is well known for playing the role of ‘Segi’ on the Nigerian Television Authority sitcom, ‘Basi and Company’. She died after a long battle with cancer.
Sisi Quadri
Yoruba Nollywood actor, Tolani Quadri Oyebamiji, popularly known as Sisi Quadri died on March 1, at the age of 44.
Oyebamiji celebrated his 44th birthday on December 25, 2023.
His death was announced by some of his colleagues in the Yoruba movie industry.
Announcing his death, Nollywood actress, Abiola Bayo wrote on her verified Instagram handle, “You will be greatly missed, Sisi Quadri. May your soul rest in perfect peace.”
Another actor, Tunde Yusuf who posted his (Sisi Quadri) picture said, “Everything in the world is according to the will of Allah. From Allah we have come and unto Him we shall return. May God bless, rest your soul, bro.”
Mr. Ibu
A day after Sisi Quadri’s demise, the news of the passing of comedic actor, John Okafor, popular as Mr Ibu broke out.
The actor, renowned for his comedic roles, died at the age of 62. It plunged fans and colleagues into mourning.
Nigerians acknowledge Mr. Ibu for his talent and unwavering strength amidst personal health challenges.
His contribution to Nollywood’s quintessential comedic figures is destined to endure as an individual. He wields large influence over the nation’s cultural and entertainment space.
Amaechi Muonagor
Three weeks after losing one of its comic actors to the pang of death, the Nigerian movie industry lost yet another veteran actor, Amaechi Muonagor, to the cold hands of death.
Muonagor died on Sunday, March 24, after battling kidney disease for a long time.
This came a few days after a viral video in which he solicited financial assistance from Nigerians to enable him to travel abroad for a kidney transplant.
Muonagor appeared in dozens of films, including Aki and Paw Paw. It is one of his most famous roles, where he played the father of two mischief-making, exuberant teenagers.
Aderounmu Adejumoke
Nollywood actress, Adejumoke Oreoluwa Aderounmu, popularly known for her role as ‘Esther’ in popular TV series Jenifa’s Diary, died on Sunday, March 7.
Adeola Aderounmu, the brother of the actress, announced her passing through his Instagram story on Sunday.
Aderounmu started her professional acting career in the movie “Arugba,” produced by Tunde Kelani in 2008, starring alongside Bukky Wright, Bukola Awoyemi, and Segun Adefila.
Junior Pope
Days after the death of Adejumoke, the news of the passing of Junior Pope Odonwodo popularly called, Jnr Pope, broke out.
The actor died on Wednesday, March 10, while filing in Asaba, the Delta State capital.
According to our source, the actor died during a boat trip. The boat capsized and him alongside two other yet to be identified actors got drown. His body was recovered and rushed to the hospital, where he was confirmed death.
Former BBNaija’s housemate and actress, Victoria Iye, aka Vee, has revealed that the concept of marriage doesn’t make sense to her currently.
To Vee, marriage is not a form of insurance, stressing that it is just vows which can be broken.
She asserted that she wants to be in a place where she feels secure, noting that love and marriage don’t always co-exist.
Speaking on Clout Africa, Vee said, “Love and the institution of marriage doesn’t always coexist. I always say to my friends that, being married is not a form of insurance. It’s just a vow and people break their vows everyday.
“I want to be in a place where I feel secure. Personally, I don’t feel marriage is all in all. Maybe it is because I am young and I haven’t experienced true love per se. I have only been in relationships. I haven’t settled myself to be with someone I really feel is my soul mate. For now, the concept of marriage really doesn’t make sense to me.”
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“For now, the concept of marriage really doesn’t make sense to me”
— ???? @???????????????????????????????????????????????????? (@OneJoblessBoy) April 9, 2024
- Vee Iye pic.twitter.com/5JWvriHVnV
Nollywood star Iyabo Ojo has expressed her stance against remarrying.
Iyabo Ojo, who has been divorced, clarified that she isn’t seeking marriage with her current partner, music executive Paul Okoye, also known as Paulo, but rather companionship.
Taking to her Instagram page, the actress shared, “Marriage – done and dusted. Had kids – done and dusted. Raised my kids – done and dusted. Next stage: Enjoyment! Enjoyment! Enjoyment!”
She added that people should, however, do what makes them happy and works for them.
“This is me. Do you ….. do what makes you happy and what works for you,” she wrote.
Iyabo Ojo is a prominent Nigerian actress, filmmaker, and entrepreneur.
She has been active in the Nigerian film industry, often referred to as Nollywood, for many years.
Ojo has appeared in numerous movies and has gained recognition for her talent and versatility as an actress. Apart from her acting career, she has also ventured into film production.
Iyabo Ojo is a well-respected figure in the Nigerian entertainment scene and has a significant following on social media platforms.
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Nigerians and other immigrants residing in Canada desire to become citizens of the country.
To attain citizenship in Canada one must first apply for the North American country’s citizenship.
According to Vanguard, below are the requirements for Nigerians and other foreigners to become a Canadian citizens.
1. The first step to becoming a permanent resident is to live in any part of the country. You can only apply for citizenship if you live in Canada.
2. You must have lived in Canada for at least three years.
Nigerians who want to become citizens in Canada must have also lived in the North American country for at least three out of the last five years (1,095 days in total).
3. Another eligibility requirement for Nigerians to become citizens in Canada is to have good knowledge about the country.
This knowledge includes Canada’s history, languages, and culture, which enable Nigerians to pass a test.
4. All your taxes must be filed. Nigerians who want to apply for citizenship in Canada must have filed all their taxes.
This is because Canada take their tax payments seriously.
5. You must be fluent in English or French. English and French are co-official languages of Canada and Nigerians who want to be citizens must prove their language skills in either of the two.
It is important to note that Nigerians who are prohibited under the Citizenship Act cannot become Canadian citizens regardless of all the requirements stated above.
Nollywood Actor, Junior Pope Odonwodo, has been confirmed dead hours after surviving a boat accident.
The Nollywood actor and three fellow colleagues were announced to have died when their boat overturned on the Anam River in Anambra State as they were returning from a film set.
However, a few hours after Junior Pope was declared dead, he was confirmed to have been resuscitated and alive after experiencing a death scare.
In a twist of event, the Nigerian actor was later confirmed dead by doctors, according to a movie producer, Stanley Nwoke.
Nwoke, who had been with the actor throughout the incident, revealed that the doctors had confirmed it.
He took to his Instagram page on Wednesday Night to share the news, saying that there was no doubt that his death was sad and painful.
Below is the biography of the late actor.
Early Life
Pope Obumneme Odonwodo, popularly known as Junior Pope, was born on May 7, 1984, in Bamenda, Cameroon. He is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Luke Odonwodo, who hail from the Ukehe tribe of Enugu State in southeastern Nigeria. Junior Pope spent his early years in Cameroon, where he completed his primary and secondary education before relocating to Nigeria.
Education
After completing his college education, Junior Pope attended the University of Nigeria Nsukka in Enugu State, where he graduated with a degree in Accountancy.
Nollywood Career
Junior Pope joined the Nigerian movie industry, Nollywood, in 2006 and quickly became known for his roles as a guard and servant.
His breakthrough came in 2007 with the movie “Secret Adventures”, directed by Tchidi Chikere, which brought him into the limelight. Since then, he has acted in over 100 movies, including Mad Sex, Bitter Generation, and Vengeance of Bullet.
Rise To Fame
His performance in “Secret Adventures” earned him the award for Nollywood’s Most Promising Actor in Nigeria at the Entertainment Factory Awards in 2010. This recognition marked the beginning of a series of accolades that would come his way.
Relationship
On July 26, 2014, Junior Pope married Jennifer Awele Okpuno. The couple is blessed with beautiful children, and together, they share a life filled with love and happiness.
Notable Performances
Some of Junior Pope’s notable performances include roles in movies such as:
Secret Adventure”: Showcased action skills “Nkwocha”: Highlighted societal issues “Bachelor Eve”: Displayed comedic timing, Labister : Highlighted societal issues in campus
Philanthropy And Influence
As a philanthropist, Junior Pope has made significant contributions to society, and his influence extends beyond the silver screen. He is known for engaging with fans on social media and sharing insights into his personal and professional life.
Legacy
Junior Pope’s legacy in Nollywood is marked by his versatility and dedication to his craft. He is considered one of the richest and most influential actors in Nigeria, with an estimated net worth of $350,000. His awards, including the Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards, are a testament to his talent and hard work.
Paris Saint-Germain boss, Luis Enrique has reflected on their 3-2 defeat to Barcelona in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final tie on Wednesday.
Raphinha opened the scoring at the Parc des Princes, but the hosts went in front thanks to goals from Ousmane Dembele and Vitinha.
Barca levelled the game through another Raphinha goal, before Andreas Christensen headed in the winner.
Enrique, speaking to TNT Sports, said: “It was a pity because I think we started the match properly and in a good mood. Disappointing after we conceded the goal.
“Second half started in the best way but suddenly we suffered the second goal. We created some chances but for us it’s a pity.
“There’s still the spirit to go to Barcelona and try to win.
“Sometimes you have to change things and it happens just when we draw the match, we created more chances. The team was at a high level at that moment. But they are a good team.”
The United States inflation figure increased to 3.5 per cent in March from 3.2 per cent in February.
This is according to consumer prices figures from the US Labor Department.
Accordingly, the inflation hike was driven mainly by higher fuel, housing, dining out, and clothing costs.
Analysts warned that the lack of progress in tackling inflation would force the US central bank to keep interest rates higher for longer.
Higher interest rates help stabilise prices by making borrowing more expensive for business expansions and other spending. In theory, that, in turn, slows the economy and eases the pressures pushing up prices.
However, the Federal Reserve’s key interest rate is now set at the highest levels in over two decades, from 5.25 per cent to 5.5 per cent.
Forecasters had expected the bank to start lowering borrowing costs this year, reflecting that the inflation rate, which tracks the pace of price rises, has fallen significantly since hitting 9.1 per cent in 2022.
However, recent economic data, including strong job creation figures, has raised doubts about how soon the cuts might come.
“We shouldn’t overreact to the jump in headline inflation – which was all about energy,” said Brian Coulton, chief economist at Fitch Ratings. But he added: “The details are not reassuring for the Fed.”
Although Nigeria’s March inflation has yet to be released, February’s data showed that it stood at 31.70 per cent amid rising food prices.