In a world where the term "Role model" is often loosely used, Kate Henshaw stands out as a true epitome of what it means to inspire, uplift, and lead by example. Over the years, Kate has carved out a niche for herself not just as an actress, but as a symbol of resilience, integrity, and dedication, qualities that make her a role model not just for aspiring actors, but for models and young professionals across various fields.

Her journey to becoming a role model is not just about her successful acting career, although that is a significant part of her story. With a career spanning over two decades, she has graced the screens with remarkable performances, bringing to life characters that resonate with audiences. However, it is her work ethic, professionalism, and consistency that have truly set her apart. She has never been one to rest on her laurels; instead, she continues to push boundaries and set new standards in Nollywood, demonstrating that excellence is not a destination but a continuous journey.

In addition to her acting prowess, she has remained a fervent advocate for fitness and healthy living. Her dedication to maintaining a healthy lifestyle has made her a fitness icon in Nigeria and beyond. With her daily workout routines, motivational posts, and infectious energy, she has inspired countless individuals to take charge of their health. In an industry where physical appearance is often scrutinized, her approach to fitness is refreshing. She promotes wellness not just for aesthetic reasons but as a means of living a balanced, fulfilling life. This holistic view of health is something that models, who often face pressure to maintain certain body standards, can learn from and adopt.

The entertainment industry is rife with challenges, including the temptation to compromise one’s values for fame and fortune. However, she has remained steadfast in her principles. Known for her candidness and unwillingness to conform to the pressures of the industry, she has navigated her career with a strong moral compass. This integrity is a key reason why she is revered not just by fans, but by her peers in the industry. For models, who often face the dilemma of staying true to themselves versus fitting into industry standards, her journey serves as a beacon of hope that one can be successful without compromising their values.

Beyond her personal achievements, Henshaw’s philanthropic efforts further solidify her status as a role model. She is deeply involved in various charitable causes, using her platform to raise awareness and funds for issues close to her heart, such as child health and education. Her commitment to giving back to society demonstrates that true success is not just about personal gain, but about lifting others as she climbs. This altruistic spirit is a powerful lesson for models and young professionals who aspire to make a difference in the world.

In the modeling industry, where the focus is often on external beauty, Kate Henshaw offers a refreshing perspective. Her life and career show that beauty is not just skin deep; it is the result of hard work, integrity, and a commitment to personal growth. Models looking for someone to emulate need not look further than Aunty Kate, as she is fondly called by her fans an following on social media platforms, whose life is a testament to the fact that true beauty and success come from within.

Without sounding panegyric in this context, Kate Henshaw is more than just a star; she is a shining example of what it means to be a role model in the truest sense of the word. As models and young professionals navigate their careers, they would do well to draw inspiration from her journey, embodying the values that have made her a respected figure both on and off the screen.

Without any scintilla of hyperbole, not a few of her colleagues in the Nollywood sector of Nigeria’s economy see her as a testimony of a generous Spirit. The foregoing can be verified by asking Google as internet does not lie.

In the vibrant and often competitive world of Nollywood, where personal success can sometimes overshadow collective growth, the name, Kate Henshaw, consistently pop up as a beacon of generosity and support. Beyond her stellar acting career, Henshaw is celebrated by her colleagues for her unwavering kindness, support, and willingness to uplift others in the industry.

Given the foregoing, it is expedient to opine that this article highlights the voices of those who have been touched by her goodness, painting a portrait of a woman whose influence extends far beyond the screen.

As a pillar of support in Nollywood, Kate Henshaw’s impact on her colleagues is nothing short of remarkable. Time and again, actors and filmmakers alike have spoken eloquently about her generosity, often crediting her with being a crucial support system during challenging times in their careers. Her readiness to lend a helping hand, offer advice, or even just provide a listening ear has endeared her to many within the industry.

One of the most vocal admirers of Kate Henshaw's kindness is her fellow actress, Uche Jombo. In several interviews, Jombo has praised Henshaw for her role in helping her navigate the early stages of her career. According to Jombo, she was one of the first established stars to reach out to her when she was just starting, offering not just professional guidance but also personal encouragement. This act of kindness left a lasting impression on Jombo, who has often referred to Henshaw as a "sister" rather than just a colleague.

In a similar vein, veteran actor Richard Mofe-Damijo (RMD), and the former Commissioner for Culture and Tourism in Delta has also publicly acknowledged Kate Henshaw's generosity, recounting a time when she stood by him during a difficult phase in his life. In a heartfelt social media post, RMD shared how Henshaw's words of encouragement and unwavering support helped him regain his confidence when he was at his lowest. He described her as a "true friend," someone who always goes the extra mile for those she cares about.

Still in a similar vein, actress Chioma Akpotha has often cited Kate Henshaw as a major influence in her career. In interviews, Akpotha has shared stories of how Henshaw took her under her wing, providing mentorship and guidance that were instrumental in shaping her path in Nollywood. Akpotha credits Henshaw with teaching her the importance of staying true to oneself, even in the face of industry pressures. This mentorship, she says, has been invaluable in her journey as an actress.

Also, producer and director Emem Isong has also spoken about Henshaw's support for women in the industry. Isong recounts how Henshaw has always been a vocal advocate for female empowerment, both on and off the screen. Whether it is supporting women-led projects, mentoring young actresses, or using her platform to speak out on issues affecting women, Henshaw has consistently shown that she is committed to lifting others up. Isong describes her as a "champion for women," whose actions speak louder than words.

Kate Henshaw’s colleagues’ testimonies paint a picture of a woman whose kindness and generosity have left an indelible mark on Nollywood. In an industry where it is easy to become absorbed in one’s success, Henshaw has remained grounded, always ready to assist and uplift those around her. Her legacy is not just in the roles she has played on screen, but in the lives she has touched off it.

In the end, it is clear that Kate Henshaw is more than just a talented actress; she is a role model, a mentor, and a friend to many in Nollywood. Her colleagues' glowing testimonials serve as a powerful reminder that true greatness lies not just in individual achievements, but in the ability to positively impact the lives of others. Kate Henshaw embodies this greatness, and for that, she will always be seen as an “Institution” in Nigeria’s Nollywood industry, particularly as she is not a controversial celebrity.

The request/demand by The Patriots, a group of eminent Nigerians for a new a constitution through National Constituent Assembly and a referendum, during their audience with President Bola Tinubu, and his response have generated public debate.

At first glance, the statement by the presidency on the august visit appears to be a positive and accommodating response, acknowledging the Patriots' concerns and expressing a willingness to engage in constructive dialogue.

However, upon closer analysis, some concerns and a missing link have emerged requiring further scrutiny and interrogation.

While the response acknowledged the Patriots' concerns, it fell short of making a concrete commitment.

The President's assurance that the requests will be "reviewed" appears vague, and this could lead to scepticisms about the President's willingness to address the Patriots' concerns.

Without a commitment and specific time-line or benchmark, the response could be seen as a delay tactic or a way to momentarily placate the Patriots, whose demands require an urgent call to action and decisive leadership.

Tinubu was a champion of a similar cause in the past, advocating for constitutional reform and social justice from military regimes.

Therefore, it is surprising and disappointing that his administration's position on such issues, lacks a clear plan or roadmap for implementation.

Critics warn that this position could undermine the trust and confidence of the Patriots and the wider public, and even lead to questioning his reform credentials.

To rebuild trust and demonstrate a genuine commitment to addressing the Patriots' concerns, Tinubu should go beyond vague assurances and provide a concrete action plan. This includes setting clear time-lines, allocating necessary resources, and establishing a transparent and accountable process for implementing the reforms. Anything less may be seen as a missed opportunity.

While economic reform is undoubtedly crucial for national development, it should not come at the expense of constitutional/political reform, which is essential for solidifying the country's democratic foundations and protecting the rights of citizens.

The Tinubu administration may be accused of sidestepping or diverting attention from politically sensitive constitutional issues and focusing on short-term economic gains.

To avoid this perception and demonstrate his commitment to addressing the Patriots' concerns, the president should reassure the Patriots and the broader public about his sincerity of purpose.

In the opinion of governance experts, constitutional/political reform is essential for creating the conducive environment for sustainable economic growth and development.

By prioritising economic reform over constitutional/political reform, the President may inadvertently be perpetuating the same systemic issues that have hindered Nigeria's progress.

The vagueness of the statement may also raise questions about the president’s willingness to confront challenges or make difficult decisions necessary for Nigeria’s advancement.

Similarly, unity as the president hinted, is essential for national progress, and this can only be realised through a deliberate and effective constitutional/political reform.

Therefore, the president should balance his emphasises on unity and addressing the Patriots' demands through an inclusive and participatory process to arrive at a pro-people governance system for Nigeria.

Furthermore, beyond platitudes, the Patriots and the wider public require concrete actions to address the country's endemic political and social malaise.

The omission of specific time-lines for addressing the Patriots' demands is a glaring oversight, and a missed opportunity with a big question mark on the President's commitment to meaningful reforms.

Dr. Sonny Onyegbula is a US-based Legal Consultant

A BILL FOR AN ACT TO  ALTER THE CONSTITUTION OF THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA 1999(AS AMENDED) BY AMENDING PARAGRAPH 20  AND PARAGRAPH 21 OF PART 1 OF THE THIRD SCHEDULE TO THE CONSTITUTION OF THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA .

BE IT ENACTED by the National Assembly of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as follows :

The Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended) in this Bill referred to as ‘The Principal Act’ is amended in Paragraph 20 of Part 1 of the Third Schedule by deleting the said paragraph 20 and substituting therefor a new paragraph 20 as follows:

1 The National Judicial Council  shall comprise the following members with not less than  one member  appointed from each of the six geopolitical zones in Nigeria.

(1)To be nominated and appointed  by a majority of all the Justices of the Supreme Court voting by secret ballot:

a A retired Justice of the Supreme Court to serve in rotation for two years.

b A retired Justice of the Court of Appeal to serve in rotation for two years.

c A Chief Judge of a State to be appointed from among all the Chief Judges of the States to serve in rotation for two years.

d One Grand Khadi to be appointed  from among  the Grand Khadis of the Sharia Court of Appeal to serve in rotation for two years.

e One President of the Customary Court of Appeal to be appointed from among the Presidents of the Customary Court of Appeal  to serve in rotation for two years.

(2)Five members of the Nigerian Bar Association who have been qualified to practise for a period of not less than fifteen years nominated by the National Executive Committee of the association:   

  (i)One of whom shall be a Senior Advocate of Nigeria who has practised in that capacity for a   period of not less than fifteen years and who shall be the Chairman of the Council serving a single term of four years and no more.

      ii) Another Senior Advocate of Nigeria to serve for two years but subject to re-appointment.

(iii) Two non-Senior  Advocates of Nigeria to serve for two years but subject to reappointment (iv) A female member to serve for two years but subject to reappointment.

v) Three persons of unimpeachable integrity not being legal practitioners  and not being  card- carrying members of any political party all of whom  must be educated to at least university level  nominated by the National Executive Committee of the Nigerian Labour Congress, National Executive Committee of the Trade Union Congress and one other distinguished Nigerian academic nominated by the National Executive Committee of  the Academic Staff Union of Universities.

2 Paragraph 21 of Part 1 of  the Third Schedule of the Principal Act is amended by the insertion of a  proviso after paragraph  21 a- j as follows :

Nothing in this paragraph shall derogate from the powers of any agency  from investigating and prosecuting in a court of law or Tribunal any judicial officer whose conduct in the opinion of such agency constitutes a violation of any law or code, and the exercise of the powers of the Council shall not be a condition precedent to the exercise of the powers of such agency, court  or Tribunal.

Initiated by Senator Sola Akinyede

Dated 21^st of June 2024

                                          EXPLANATORY MEMORANDUM

The Bill seeks to alter the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (As Amended) to reconstitute the membership of the National Judicial Council and to permit all members of the council participate fully in the affairs of the council.

               THE IMPERATIVE OF RESTRUCTURING THE NATIONAL JUDICIAL COUNCIL

‘The public reputation  of the judicial system hangs on the perceived adherence to the principles of justice. An unjust court is an illegitimate court’-  Justice Sonia  Sotomayor of the United States Supreme Court in the case of Rosales Morales v US

The credibility, reputation and public perception of the Nigerian judiciary is at an all-time low. A judiciary that once had internationally acclaimed jurists (like the late Justice of the Supreme Court Sir Udo Udoma, whose judgement as the Chief Justice of Uganda is still cited in British universities and text books, Justice Kayode Eso and Justice Chukwudifu Oputa )-now delivers judgements that are derided by  a confounded Nigerian public who to quote Justice Dattijo Muhammad ‘have become witheringly scornful and monstrously critical’ . ‘It is an open secret that  judges and court officials are bribed by litigants  to obviate delays or obtain favourable judgements’.

Among the examples of cases that shook the confidence of Nigerians:

i The judgement of the Supreme Court in the 2020 Imo governorship election.

iii Other  judgements of the Supreme Court  especially in political cases where such judgements are totally at variance and unrelated to reality.

iii The judgement of the  three Justices of the Court of Appeal in the Kano State  Governorship election petition in which the court came to two opposite conclusions dismissing the appeal of the NNPP governor and  holding the APC candidate as the duly elected governor in the judgement read in open court, while the certified true copy of the same judgement upheld the appeal of the NNPP governor and declared him as duly elected.

iv The present judicial confusion in the Kano State Emirate cases in which over a 5-day period, three different judges, two in the Federal High Court which under the constitution clearly lacks jurisdiction in chieftaincy matters, and the Kano State High Court gave conflicting orders. For the Federal High Court, it a clear case of judicial impunity and utter recklessness, the chaos and confusion indicative of a weak disciplinary oversight or a dereliction of duty by the National Judicial Council (NJC) in ensuring judicial discipline.

These are all signs of a decaying judiciary and justice system

In addition to this, is the perception that the heads of the judiciary are unable or unwilling to  confront corruption  which many suspect may be responsible  for some of the bizarre judgements coming from the judiciary. There has been no serious attempt to bring to book judicial officers against whom there were clear and water-tight cases of corruption, the appellate courts preferring to save those judicial officers by deploying spurious technicalities not supported by law, our constitution or global best practices.

Example

About twelve years ago, a judicial officer  was found to have had a substantial amount of money including foreign currency in his account. The judicial officer who could not explain how he came by this amount which was clearly not fairly attributable to his income as required by the  Code of Conduct for Public Officers was charged to court for money laundering and unlawful enrichment. He did not bother to explain the source of the money, but put up a technical defence that he could not be prosecuted unless  he was first disciplined by the National Judicial Council. There is no provision in our constitution, in any law or global best practices that states that a judicial officer cannot be prosecuted unless the NJC whose authority under the constitution is restricted to  ‘exercising disciplinary control  over judicial officers’ (and not crimes) first takes disciplinary action. Indeed in the United States, and many other countries, conviction for an offence is usually a basis for commencing disciplinary action by such judicial bodies.

As expected, the high court dismissed this technical defence. But to the shock of many, the Court of Appeal upheld the technicality. The Supreme Court also agreed, discharging the judicial officer -in effect fabricating a technical immunity for judicial officers. That judicial officer is still in office today. In February 2021, in a publication in Thisday , I warned that this fabricated immunity would be extended to the police who have their own disciplinary body-the Police Service Commission as well as to the civil service which  has the Civil Service Commission. In February this year as predicted, after an eight-year trial, a Federal High Court sitting in Abuja dismissed  charges of money laundering and conversion of N21.5 billion  belonging  to the Nigeria Air Force against three of its ex-officers on the ground that being serving officers at the time of the alleged offences, they were only subject to trial by court martial. The court was obviously  relying on the same technicality  used by the Supreme Court to free the judicial officer. The  military officers could not be prosecuted in the civil courts, but since they are no longer in the military, they also cannot now be court martialled. Like the judicial officer they have been set free.

It is sad that it is the appellate courts that are deploying technicalities to enable public officers commit acts of corruption against the Nigerian state.

JUDICIAL APPOINTMENTS

To make matters worse, it is increasingly becoming common for senior judicial officers to organise the appointments of their children and relatives into the judiciary, obviously to the exclusion of better qualified candidates. In 2021, Mr Olumide Akpata former President of the Nigerian Bar Association then a member of the NJC,expressed his shock that important legal issues put to nominees for appointment to the Court of Appeal could not be answered saying that the exercise by the NJC was rushed and conducted ‘like an old school boys meeting’ with some members of the NJC saying that the candidates ‘would learn on the job.’ Learn on the job at the Court of Appeal ?!  A situation in which out of the hundreds of eligible candidates, eight of the twelve judges(almost 70%) sworn in as judges of the FCT High Court are children or relatives of senior judicial or former senior judicial officers presents a high statistical improbability without some manipulation or undue influence  and is worrisome

Nigeria has many brilliant and upright lawyers and judges and obviously what is happening is that the best are not listed for consideration. Why is this so ?

STRUCTURE OF THE FEDERAL JUDICIAL SERVICE COMMISION AND THE NATIONAL JUDICIAL COUNCIL

The body that shortlists and decides who should be invited for consideration for judicial appointments – the Federal Judicial Service Commission is headed by the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN)with the President of the Court of Appeal as deputy. It is also the body that advises the National Judicial Council. The body that interviews and selects the shortlisted candidates and decides who to recommend to the President for appointment as judicial officers  -the National Judicial Council  is also headed by the Chief Justice of Nigeria with the President of the Court of Appeal also as deputy.

The CJN is also responsible under the constitution for the appointment of 19 out of the 23 members (82 %) in the National Judicial Council. Almost 90%, (88%) of the members of the Council are judicial and ex- judicial officers. So when the CJN composes his list of candidates as the Chairman of the Federal Judicial Service Commission and brings it to the National Judicial Council where he is also the Chairman, who among the 19 appointees that he brought to the Council or the 88% of the judicial or ex-judicial officers most of whom are also his appointees  will have the guts or courage to oppose or challenge his decisions?

I am not aware of any country in the world  where the percentage of judicial and ex judicial officers in a body like the NJC is almost 90%.  In the United Kingdom a similar body the Judicial Appointments Commission has 15 members. Only 6 (40%) are judicial members. The Chairman as well as 5 other members are non-lawyers. In the United States of America, in most states, a majority of the members are non-lawyers and judicial officers make a minority of the membership.

To make matters worse and shocking, a proviso  to paragraph 20  of the third schedule part 1  to the constitution provides that even the five members of the Nigerian Bar Association appointed by the CJN can only sit for the purpose of appointment of judicial officers meaning that they cannot sit in respect of disciplinary matters relating to judicial officers. So a legal  practitioner who has been a lawyer for 50 years and a Senior Advocate of Nigeria for 20 years as a member of the Council  is not allowed to sit or participate if a judicial officer who has been a lawyer for just 12 years  and a judge for two years is facing disciplinary  action. I am not aware of any country in the world where this is so. In many countries even non-lawyers are allowed to, and do participate in disciplinary proceedings against judicial officers.

The present situation where  the CJN is the alpha and omega-  akin to a monarch wielding authoritarian powers leading the NJC which essentially  is a private members’ club of judicial and ex-judicial officers whose primary instinct is to at all cost protect themselves and their brother judicial officers and preserve the status quo is as follows:

1. The best materials are denied appointment as judicial officers, with members of the council preferring to appoint their relatives and favoured candidates rather than on merit.
2. Disciplinary control of judicial officers is weak and lackadaisical -a reason why judicial corruption and many scandalous judicial decisions are on the rise and the judiciary in serious decline.

This was confirmed by a retired Justice of the Supreme Court Justice Muhammad Datijjo- the second in command to the current CJN during his valedictory speech on the 27^th of October 2023 when he bemoaned the absolute powers vested in the office of the CJN. He also said ‘ As much as possible the most qualified men and women were elevated. That can no longer be said about appointment to the bench’. Finally he said ‘The institution (the Judiciary) has become something else’ Coming from a very senior judicial officer, this was damnifying.

INNOVATIONS

The anomalous and incongruous situation in which a person who heads the body(Federal  Judicial Service Commission)  that decides and prepares a shortlist of persons  for judicial offices and whose function is to advise the NJC is also the head of the NJC the body it advises and which  interviews , decides those qualified for judicial offices and sends the list of such persons to the president has been addressed by this amendment.

a)While the CJN remains the head of the Federal Judicial Service Commission, he is no longer a member or Chairman  of the  restructured NJC. The two principal stakeholders in our legal system and the justice system are the Bar and the Bench. In order to address the obviously lopsided  and monopolistic current arrangement and create some balance, while the Bench chairs one of the judicial bodies, the Bar chairs the other.

b) His powers of appointing  82% of the members of the NJC have been removed. The judicial members of the NJC are now nominated and appointed by the Justices of the  Supreme Court.

c) In order to reduce the overbearing influence of judicial officers and create a balance as in most countries, the number of judicial and ex judicial officers in the NJC (almost 90%) has been reduced to 5(about 40%) of the members. In the UK it is 40%.  The children of ordinary Nigerians- farmers, labourers vulcanisers etc have a right to aspire to judicial and high judicial offices if they have the right credentials and proven integrity. It is hoped that this amendment  will bring in fairness, transparency and balance in judicial appointments, as well as firmness and transparency in the discipline of judicial officers.

d) Members of the Nigerian Bar Association will now participate in the full affairs of the Council as in most countries.

e) In order to ensure the independence of the Council, the non-lawyer members  who are also currently appointed by the CJN are now nominated and appointed by independent and broad based organisations –  The National Executive Committees of the Nigeria Labour Congress, the Trade Union Congress and the Academic Staff Union of Universities. A person does not have to be a judge or a lawyer to understand fairness in appointments, corruption in the judiciary etc. All that is required is a good level of education and understanding. The percentage of non-lawyers in the UK is 40%. Under the proposed amendment  it is 3 out of 13 (23%)

f) Finally in the spirit of reducing  the cost of governance, the membership of the Council has been reduced from 23 to 13 with provisions that ensure that each of the six geo-political zones in the country is represented and that one of the five members nominated by the Nigerian Bar Association is a female.

PROVISO TO PARAGRAPH 21

The purpose  of this amendment is to override  the self-serving technicality manufactured by the appellate courts to prevent themselves and other judicial officers from being prosecuted by the law enforcement agencies. They should be subject to prosecution like all other Nigerians.

CONCLUSION

The National Judicial Council was established 45 years ago. Clearly, it is no longer fit for purpose. It is not working well and needs to be restructured, the membership broadened  and invigorated. That the country is in dire need of judicial reform is without doubt. That reform will not happen unless it starts with the National Judicial Council. In the last 30  or so years, high level corruption, opacity and lack of transparency in public affairs  by public officers has increased exponentially and alarmingly as a result of which access to justice by the citizen as well as access  to social rights have significantly  declined. If the judiciary, the only body that can ensure accountability by the Legislature and the Executive itself becomes enmeshed in these ills as is beginning to happen the country is finished.

SENATOR SOLA AKINYEDE  OON, LL.M – WHO WAS IN THE SENATE FROM 2007 TO 2011 SENT THIS BILL TO THE 2024 SENATE COMMITTEE ON CONSTITUTION REVIEW

A fresh move to oust the national chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) Dr Abdullahi Ganduje is afoot by power brokers in the presidential villa.

It was learnt that the move would entail easing off the embattled former governor of Kano State through an ambassadorial appointment in order not to disgrace him out of office.

A source, in the know, confirmed to LEADERSHIP that the villa had actually presented the ambassadorial offer to Ganduje, with the hope that he would accept it and move on.

The source hinted that Ganduje’s delay in accepting the offer is one of major reasons why the formalised ambassadorial list has not been released.

It was further learnt that it was on the back of the aforementioned arrangement that the president gave his nod for the convening of a National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting for next month.

The plot is reminiscent of how former Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) national chairman, Bamanga Tukur, was appeased to vacate office in 2014 by then President Goodluck Jonathan following pressure by aggrieved governors at the time.

Jonathan, in a bid not to disgrace Tukur, appointed him Ambassador-at-Large, having earlier appointed him chairman, Board of Directors of the Nigerian Railway Corporation, after he (Tukur) resigned from the political office.

LEADERSHIP had on Tuesday reported exclusively on an approval by the presidency for the APC NEC meeting to be held next month.

The nod for the meeting is against the backdrop of President Bola Tinubu’s availability for the top meeting between September 6 and 19.

The NEC meeting will set the stage for the conduct of a non-elective national convention which will be held before the end of this year.

Besides being the first NEC meeting this year, it will also be the first under the national chairmanship of Ganduje.

Ganduje’s assumption of office in 2022 has been dogged by opposition from North Central party leaders who argue that he is occupying the zone’s slot against the zoning arrangement.

His situation was subsequently compounded by an alleged financial corruption probe into his administration as Kano State governor by his successor, Abba Kabir Yusuf.

An APC chairmanship aspirant in 2022, Muhammad Etsu, had filed a legal injunction to stop Ganduje from parading himself as national chairman.

He had argued for the national chairmanship seat to return to the North Central zone, as it was zoned ahead of the 2022 elective national convention.

In the build-up to the 2022 national convention, the APC had zoned the position to the North Central which saw Senator Abdullahi Adamu emerge as national chairman.

He, however, resigned in 2023 paving the way for Ganduje, who hails from North West, to become chairman.

LEADERSHIP Friday learned that some top APC federal lawmakers have also leaned on Ganduje to take the ambassadorial slot.

But another party source revealed that Ganduje had also tried to rally some close friends of the president to save his job.

He is said to have met a former South West governor and close Tinubu ally and contemporary as governor, to intervene in his case.

Meanwhile, APC stakeholders from the North Central yesterday renewed their push for Ganduje to vacate the office.

It was gathered that the plot is to replace Ganduje with former Nasarawa State Governor Umaru Tanko Al-makura, who had contested the top party seat in 2022 but lost to his predecessor in Nasarawa, Senator Abdullahi Adamu.

Calls and text messages to Al-makura over his interest in the APC national chairmanship were not responded to as of press time.

However, in a letter addressed to President Tinubu, Concerned North Central APC Stakeholders urged the president to “resolve some of the issues agitating” their zone, “especially the issue concerning the zoning of party chairmanship back to the zone where the seat originally belongs.”

The letter was signed by a former chairman aspirant, Mohammed Estu.
It further said the “emergence of Dr Ganduje was at a severe cost to our zone which has been left high and dry. We have not been adequately compensated. The North Central zone as a collective is the party’s strongest zone politically today. Five out of the six states in the zone are controlled by the party. This is a high percentage,” the letter read.

Earlier, Estu, in a press conference, commended the president for finally initiating the “long overdue” NEC meeting and urged the President to consolidate the acceptance of APC in the zone by rewarding the hard work of party members in the zone.

He said: “But, more importantly, by ensuring that the chairmanship of the party zoned back to the North Central, the president will be ensuring that the yearlong injustice to the zone is righted.
“Since the last reorganisation of the party, all the zones were adequately represented except for the North Central which has still been left in the cold. We want to also take our seat in the comity of our peers,’’ Estu said at the meeting.

Ganduje, APC Mum Over Plans For Ambassadorial Appointment, Substitution Of Legal Adviser
Meanwhile, Ganduje has kept mum over insinuations that he has been tipped for ambassadorial appointment to leave his current position for someone from the North-Central geopolitical zone.
When contacted, the chief press secretary to APC national chairman, Edwin Olofu, did not reply to our correspondent as of the time of this report.

Similarly, the APC national publicity secretary, Felix Morka did not respond to inquiries about the development, including on plans to substitute the party’s national legal adviser position presently in North-central with a North-west occupant.

It was gathered from credible sources in the party that the President planned to return the position of APC national chairman to North-Central, hence the national legal adviser would return to North-West zone which had held the position.

Originally, Ahmed El-Marzuq, the erstwhile APC national legal adviser, had resigned from his position shortly after the party’s former national chairman, Adullahi Adamu bowed out.
Consequently, Prof. Abdulkarim Kana from Nasarawa State was appointed to fill the vacancy, the position he is holding till date.

“Part of the plan is that by the time Ganduje leaves, the position of national legal adviser will go back to North-West as another national chairman will emerge from North-Central. This will likely take place during the National Executive Council (NEC) meeting expected in September,” the sources who do not want their names mentioned said.

[Leadership]

There are indications that the persistent fuel shortage across the country is caused by the decision of some marketers not to lift fuel over impending price increase.

Sources who spoke to our correspondent on Friday stated that some filling stations were not selling in anticipation of a price increase ahead of the roll out of petroleum product from Dangote refinery.

A newspaper (not Daily Trust) had reported that independent marketers were anticipating the premium motor spirit (pms) to be sold at N600 per litre when it’s finally rolled out.

But the management of Dangote refinery clarified that the speculation that marketers expect the refinery to sell petrol at N600 per liter is not reflective of the refinery’s position while also denying fixing price at that price.

“We would like to clarify that Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) is not our business partner yet,” said Anthony Chiejina, spokesman of the Dangote Group.

Our correspondent learnt that despite the denial by Dangote, some marketers were hoarding fuel in anticipation of the price hike.

Daily Trust learnt that the Nigerian Midstream and Donwstream Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) has threatened to shut down filling stations that refuse to dispense fuel.

However when contacted, Chief Corporate Communications Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Olufemi Shoneye, said there is enough supply as far as NNPC is concerned.

“In terms of supply, I can confirm that we have supply,” he simply said when contacted on Friday.

Reports from across the country on Thursday indicated that the scarcity persisted with long queues in a few major filling stations that are dispensing fuel while a litre is almost hitting N1000 at independent filling stations.

[DailyTrust]

Famous rapper Nicki Minaj has expressed her admiration for Nigerian singer, Ayodeji Balogun, aka Wizkid.

Speaking during a recent stream on StationHead, the ‘Queen of rap’ said she has “much love and respect” for Wizkid.

Minaj described the ‘Ojuelegba’ crooner as “very chill and smart.”

She said, “He [Wizkid] is a very very cool chill guy. He’s really that guy, very smart. I have much love and respect for him.”

She also revealed they met while she was recording her 2018 album ‘Queen’ in a studio in Queens, New York.

Despite rumours of a Wizkid and Nicki Minaj collaboration over the years, the duo has not yet released any songs together or confirmed that they have an unreleased song together.

[DailyPost]

The 2024 MTV Video Music Awards is one of the most anticipated events in the music industry, bringing together top artists and fans to celebrate outstanding achievements in music video production.

Scheduled to take place on September 11, 2024, at the UBS Arena in Elmont, New York, the ceremony will spotlight the most creative and impactful music videos, artists, and songs released over the past year.

The 2024 MTV Video Music Awards promise to be a star-studded affair, featuring a nominee list that ranges from industry powerhouses such as Taylor Swift, Ariana Grande, and Megan Thee Stallion to rising stars like Chappell Roan, Sabrina Carpenter, and Gracie Abrams.

The VMAs will be on Wednesday, September 11, starting at 8:00 p.m. ET, with the red carpet events earlier. The date was moved from September 10 to avoid clashing with the first presidential debate between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump.

There are about 21 categories and voting is ongoing, PUNCH Online reports.

Here’s everything you need to know about this year’s VMAs.

VIDEO OF THE YEAR

Ariana Grande – “we can’t be friends (wait for your love)”
Billie Eilish – “LUNCH”
Doja Cat – “Paint The Town Red”
Eminem – “Houdini”
SZA – “Snooze”
Taylor Swift ft. Post Malone – “Fortnight”

ARTISTE OF THE YEAR

Ariana Grande
Bad Bunny
Eminem
Sabrina Carpenter
SZA
Taylor Swift

SONG OF THE YEAR

Beyoncé – “TEXAS HOLD ‘EM”
Jack Harlow – “Lovin On Me”
Kendrick Lamar – “Not Like Us”
Sabrina Carpenter – “Espresso”
Taylor Swift ft. Post Malone – “Fortnight”
Teddy Swims – “Lose Control”

BEST NEW ARTISTE

Benson Boone
Chappell Roan
Gracie Abrams
Shaboozey
Teddy Swims
Tyla

MTV PUSH PERFORMANCE OF THE YEAR

August 2023: Kaliii – “Area Codes”
September 2023: GloRilla – “Lick or Sum”
October 2023: Benson Boone – “In The Stars”
November 2023: Coco Jones — “ICU”
December 2023: Victoria Monét – “On My Mama”
January 2024: Jessie Murph – “Wild Ones”
February 2024: Teddy Swims – “Lose Control”
March 2024: Chappell Roan – “Red Wine Supernova”
April 2024: Flyana Boss – “yeaaa”
May 2024: Laufey – “Goddess”
June 2024: LE SSERAFIM – “EASY”
July 2024: The Warning – “Automatic Sun”

BEST COLLABORATION

Drake ft. Sexyy Red & SZA – “Rich Baby Daddy”
GloRilla, Megan Thee Stallion – “Wanna Be”
Jessie Murph ft. Jelly Roll – “Wild Ones”
Jung Kook ft. Latto – “Seven”
Post Malone ft. Morgan Wallen – “I Had Some Help”
Taylor Swift ft. Post Malone – “Fortnight”

BEST POP

Camila Cabello
Dua Lipa
Olivia Rodrigo
Sabrina Carpenter
Tate McRae
Taylor Swift

BEST HIP-HOP

Drake ft. Sexyy Red & SZA – “Rich Baby Daddy”
Eminem – “Houdini”
GloRilla – “Yeah Glo!”
Gunna – “fukumean”
Megan Thee Stallion – “BOA”
Travis Scott ft. Playboi Carti – “FE!N”

BEST R&B

Alicia Keys – “Lifeline”
Muni Long – “Made For Me”
SZA – “Snooze”
Tyla – “Water”
USHER, Summer Walker, 21 Savage – “Good Good”
Victoria Monét – “On My Mama”

BEST ALTERNATIVE

Benson Boone – “Beautiful Things”
Bleachers – “Tiny Moves”
Hozier – “Too Sweet”
Imagine Dragons – “Eyes Closed”
Linkin Park – “Friendly Fire”
Teddy Swims – “Lose Control (Live)”

BEST ROCK

Bon Jovi – “Legendary”
Coldplay – “feelslikeimfallinginlove”
Green Day – “Dilemma”
Kings of Leon – “Mustang”
Lenny Kravitz – “Human”
U2 – “Atomic City”

BEST AFROBEATS

Ayra Starr ft. Giveon – “Last Heartbreak Song”
Burna Boy – “City Boys”
Chris Brown ft. Davido & Lojay – “Sensational”
Tems – “Love Me JeJe”
Tyla – “Water”
USHER, Pheelz – “Ruin”

BEST LATIN

Anitta – “Mil Veces”
Bad Bunny – “MONACO”
KAROL G – “MI EX TENÍA RAZÓN”
Myke Towers – “LALA”
Peso Pluma & Anitta – “BELLAKEO”
Rauw Alejandro – “Touching The Sky”
Shakira & Cardi B – “Puntería”

BEST K-POP

Jung Kook ft. Latto – “Seven”
LISA – “Rockstar”
NCT Dream – “Smoothie”
NewJeans – “Super Shy”
Stray Kids – “LALALALA”
TOMORROW X TOGETHER – “Deja vu”

VIDEO FOR GOOD

Alexander Stewart – “if you only knew”
Billie Eilish – “What Was I Made For (From The Motion Picture “Barbie”)”
Coldplay – “feelslikeimfallinginlove”
Joyner Lucas & Jelly Roll – “Best For Me”
RAYE – “Genesis.”
Tyler Childers – “In Your Love”

BEST DIRECTION

Ariana Grande – “we can’t be friends (wait for your love)” – Directed by Christian Breslauer
Bleachers -“Tiny Moves” – Directed by Alex Lockett and Margaret Qualley
Eminem – “Houdini”- Directed by Rich Lee
Megan Thee Stallion – “BOA” – Directed by Daniel Iglesias Jr.
Sabrina Carpenter – “Please Please Please” – Directed by Bardia Zeinali
Taylor Swift ft. Post Malone – “Fortnight” – Directed by Taylor Swift

BEST CINEMATOGRAPHY

Ariana Grande – “we can’t be friends (wait for your love)” – Cinematography by Anatol Trofimov
Charli xcx – “Von dutch” – Cinematography by Jeff Bierman
Dua Lipa – “Illusion” – Cinematography by Nikita Kuzmenko
Olivia Rodrigo – “obsessed” – Cinematography by Marz Miller
Rauw Alejandro – “Touching The Sky” – Cinematography by Camilo Monsalve
Taylor Swift ft. Post Malone – “Fortnight” – Cinematography by Rodrigo Prieto

BEST EDITING

Anitta – “Mil Veces” – Editing by Nick Yumul
Ariana Grande – “we can’t be friends (wait for your love)” – Editing by Luis Caraza Peimbert
Eminem – “Houdini” – Editing by David Checel
LISA – “Rockstar” – Editing by Nik Kohler
Sabrina Carpenter – “Espresso” – Editing by Jai Shukla
Taylor Swift ft. Post Malone – “Fortnight” – Editing by Chancler Haynes

BEST CHOREOGRAPHY

Bleachers – “Tiny Moves” – Choreography by Margaret Qualley
Dua Lipa – “Houdini” – Choreography by Charm La’Donna
LISA – “Rockstar” – Choreography by Sean Bankhead
Rauw Alejandro – “Touching The Sky” – Choreography by Felix ‘Fefe’ Burgos
Tate McRae – “Greedy” – Choreography by Sean Bankhead
Troye Sivan – “Rush” – Choreography by Sergio Reis, Mauro Van De Kerkhof

BEST VISUAL EFFECTS

Ariana Grande – “the boy is mine” – Visual effects by Digital Axis
Eminem – “Houdini” – Visual effects by Synapse Virtual Production, Louise Lee, Rich Lee, Metaphysic, Flawless Post
Justin Timberlake – “Selfish” – Visual effects by Candice Dragonas
Megan Thee Stallion – “BOA” – Visual effects by Mathematic
Olivia Rodrigo – “get him back!” — Visual effects by Cooper Vacheron, Preston Mohr, Karen Arakelian, Justin Johnson
Taylor Swift ft. Post Malone – “Fortnight” – Visual effects by Parliament

BEST ART DIRECTION

Charli xcx – “360” – Art direction by Grace Surnow
LISA – “Rockstar” – Art direction by Pongsan Thawatwichian
Megan Thee Stallion – “BOA” – Art direction by Brittany Porter
Olivia Rodrigo – “bad idea right?” – Art direction by Nicholas des Jardins
Sabrina Carpenter – “Please Please Please” – Art direction by Nicholas des Jardins
Taylor Swift ft. Post Malone – “Fortnight” – Art direction by Ethan Tobman

[Punch]

The Presidency yesterday moved against Chinese firm, Zhongshan Fucheng Industrial Investment Company, over the seizure of three presidential jets on the order of the Judicial Court of Paris, France.

It also dismissed court orders against Ogun State Government, which led to the seizure of the three presidential jets, as an attempt to strip Nigeria of her assets.

Consequently, both the federal and Ogun State governments are making frantic efforts to vacate the orders obtained by the Chinese company on March 7, 2024, and August 12, 2024, respectively, with a view to securing the release of the planes.

This is reminiscent of the order obtained by Process and Industrial Development Limited, P&ID, in London to secure $11 billion judgment debt from Nigeria, which the Federal Government eventually got vacated.

Background to the Zhongshan Fucheng Case

A contract between Ogun State and Zhongshan to manage a free-trade zone was executed in 2007 but the parties entered into a dispute in 2015, and arbitration began in 2016.

By 2019, it was learned that the arbitration hearing had been concluded, as the Arbitral Panel awarded over $60 million against the Federal Government of Nigeria, a co-defendant, when all Zhongshan had done was build a perimeter fence around the free-trade zone.

Based on legal advice, Ogun State Government was said to have resolved to resist enforcement of the award. It was also gathered that the resistance was successful in eight different jurisdictions, as there are pending appeals against recognition orders issued in both the US and UK.

Ogun State, it was learned, also engaged Zhongshan in settlement discussions on reasonable terms. The last meeting, which held in September 2023 in London, lasted for three days and was attended by several officials of Ogun State, including Governor Dapo Abiodun and the Attorney-General/Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi.

Zhongshan’s initial reasonable readiness to consider Ogun State’s offer was surprisingly reversed by the second day when it insisted on government paying the full arbitration debt.
It was learned that this led to a breakdown of the mediation, with parties agreeing to meet again in the first quarter of this year.

Since then, Zhongshan, Vanguard learned, had been evasive and instead, embarked on a series of enforcement proceedings, which the legal team appointed by the FGN and Ogun State successfully opposed.

In cases similar to the present one, where Zhongshan obtained an ex-parte order, Ogun State successfully set aside the orders, it was learned.

Ogun State has not given up on a reasonable settlement option, with the most recent being a letter sent to Zhongshan last week.

Zhongshan, it was gathered, only responded after obtaining this latest illegal order.

Claiming that the Federal Government was never served any notice of the two cases in the Judicial Court of Paris which gave orders on March 7, 2024, and August 12, 2024, respectively, the Presidency said it is working with Ogun State Government to discharge what it descried as a frivolous order.

FG not under contractual obligation—Onanuga

Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, who disclosed this in a statement yesterday, said: ‘’The Presidency is aware of the various failed attempts by a Chinese company, Zhongshan Fucheng Industrial Investment Co. Limited, to take over offshore assets of the Federal Government of Nigeria through subterfuge.

‘’Ogun State Government, on Thursday (yesterday), faulted the judicial process that led to the provisional attachment of three Nigerian government-owned aircraft in France by the Judicial Court of Paris on March 7 and August 2, 2024.

‘’The Federal Government is not under any contractual obligation with the company. The case in which Zhongshan is trying to use every unorthodox means to strip our offshore assets is between the company and Ogun State Government.

“The Federal Government is aware of efforts being made by the Ogun State Government to reach an amicable resolution to the matter.

‘’It must be said without any equivocation that Zhongshan has no solid ground to demand restitution from Ogun State Government, based on facts regarding the 2007 contract between the company and the state government to manage a free-trade zone.

‘’When the contract with Ogun State was revoked in 2015, the company had only erected a perimeter fence on the land earmarked for a free trade zone.

“While the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice are working with the Ogun State Government on an amicable resolution, Zhongshan obtained two orders from the Judicial Court of Paris, dated March 7, 2024, and August 12, 2024, without any notice being duly served on the Federal Government of Nigeria and Ogun State Government.

‘’This arm-twisting tactic by the Chinese company is the latest in a long list of failed moves to attach Nigerian government-owned assets to foreign jurisdictions.

“Material facts in the transaction between Ogun State Government and Zhongshan point to another P&ID case in which unscrupulous and questionable individuals falsely present themselves as investors with the sole objective of cheating and scamming governments in Africa.

‘’Undoubtedly, Zhongshan withheld vital information and misled the Judicial Court in Paris into attaching the Nigerian government’s presidential jets, which are on routine maintenance in France.

‘’The use and nature of the presidential jets as assets of a sovereign entity whose assets are protected by diplomatic immunity forbid any foreign court from issuing an order against them.

‘’We are convinced the Chinese company misled the Judicial Court of Paris regarding the use and nature of the assets it seeks to attach and did not fully disclose to the court as required by law.

“This same Chinese company had tried to enforce its questionable judgment in the UK and USA but failed. Like the P&ID case, foreign companies are trying to defraud Nigeria with the collaboration of some bureaucrats.

“Zhongshan appeared to have sold the judgment they got to a venture capitalist seeking to make money by embarrassing the Federal Government and President Bola Tinubu.

“We want to assure Nigerians that the Federal Government is working with Ogun State Government to discharge this frivolous order in Paris immediately.

“Nigerian government will always work to protect our national assets from predators and shylocks who masquerade as investors.

Ogun moves to vacate seizure order, faults fraudulent legal process by Zhongashan
Reacting to the court order yesterday, Ogun State Government faulted the judicial process that led to the provisional attachment of three Nigerian government-owned aircraft in France by the Judicial Court of Paris.

In a statement by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Strategy, Kayode Akinmade, Ogun State Government described the latest development as the new antics by the Chinese company to appropriate Nigerian assets in foreign jurisdictions, as past efforts had continually failed.

The statement described the legal process as nothing but a total charade with fraudulent notion, adding that the company deliberately concealed the litigation from both the Nigerian government and Ogun State, as well as their legal counsel before hurriedly securing orders of seizure.

It added that the company must have misled the Judicial Court of Paris as to the use and nature of the assets it sought to attach and not made full disclosure to the court as required by law.

According to the statement, Ogun State, alongside the Federal Government, has already taken immediate action to ensure that those provisional attachments are lifted quickly, even as it accused the company of reneging on earlier discussion for an amicable resolution of the case.

The state government also likened the case to that of P&ID, describing it as very unfortunate case of unscrupulous individuals masquerading as foreign investors with the sole aim of defrauding Ogun State and Nigeria at large.

The statement read: “On August 14, 2024, the attention of the Ogun State Government was drawn to the provisional attachment of three Nigerian government-owned aircraft in France by the Chinese company, Zhongshan Fucheng Industrial Investment Co. Ltd. (Zhongshan).

‘’Ogun State also learned of two orders of the Judicial Court of Paris dated March 7, 2024, and August 12, 2024, respectively, both obtained by Zhongshan without notice being duly given to the Federal Government or Nigeria, Ogun State or their legal counsel.

“This is the latest in a series of ill-advised attempts by Zhongshan to attach Nigerian-owned assets in foreign jurisdictions, none of which have to date led to the recovery of any sums from Nigeria.

“Each of the three aircraft is used solely for sovereign purposes and as such are immune from attachment under international and French laws.

“In obtaining the provisional attachments, Zhongshan deliberately withheld information from the Federal Government of Nigeria, Ogun State and their legal counsel.

“Just like the P&ID case, this is another unfortunate case of unscrupulous individuals masquerading as foreign investors with the sole aim of defrauding Ogun State and Nigeria.
“It should be recalled that the underlying contract between Ogun State and Zhongshan was executed in 2007, 12 years before the present administration, for the management of a free-trade zone. The parties entered into a dispute in 2015 with arbitration commencing in 2016.

“By 2019, when the current State Administration took office, the hearing at the arbitration had been all but concluded. The Arbitral Panel awarded over 60 million USD against the Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN) which was a co-Defendant, when all Zhongshan had done was to build a perimeter fence around the free-trade zone. Needless to say, this was a bad/unfair decision.

“The present state administration could not in all good conscience allow such an unconscionable and baseless decision, which would dissipate the commonwealth of the good people of Ogun State.

“Accordingly, and based on erudite legal advice, this administration resolved to resist enforcement of the award. The resistance was successful in eight different jurisdictions. Currently, there are pending appeals against recognition orders issued in both the US and UK.’’

It’s an international embarrassment —Peter Obi

Reacting to the development yesterday, the presidential candidate of Labour Party, LP, in 2023 elections, Mr Peter Obi, described the seizure of aircraft in Nigeria’s Presidential Air Fleet as an international embarrassment.

Obi said the development has exposed Nigeria’s failed leadership and poor attitude to the rule of law in a democracy.

He said: “The trending international news on the seizure of three jets belonging to Nigeria’s Presidential fleet is yet another of many embarrassing things exposing our failed leadership and our attitude to the rule of law, even in a democracy.

‘’It has also exposed multiple dimensions to our leadership failure and our insensitivity to the plight of the growing poor class in our midst.

“The fact that the Federal Government went ahead with the jet deal, despite the cacophonous cry against the purchase of a presidential jet at this time when the people are going through a horrifying economic hardship, shows the insensitivity of this administration.

“Added to it is the embarrassing aspect of our country’s presidential jets being held for contractual breaches arising from yet another dimension of inadequate leadership tidiness.

“I have been loud in my demand over time that government at all levels should be accountable to the people, meaning that they must be very transparent in all their dealings.

‘’Until a court in France prohibits Nigeria from moving or selling these three jets, Nigerians have no iota of information about both the buying and selling of these aircraft.

“It has been done in secrecy. Federal government property, which belongs to the people, is being managed as a personal family asset. Paying as much as $100million for a Presidential jet for a country that is the poverty capital of the world and has more out-of-school children with over 40% food inflation is the height of concern for the people’s feelings.

“This incident has also opened up an aspect of indiscipline that is copiously embedded in our country, which is the abuse and disrespect for the rule of law.

“Here are questions begging for answers: To what extent did Ogun Government follow its agreement with the Chinese firm?

“After the UK court ruling that prohibited some Nigerian buildings in Liverpool, what did both Ogun State and Federal Governments do before the French court action?

“I would like to, therefore, challenge the Federal Government to come clean and transparent on this matter and tell Nigerians how we got to this latest international mess.”

Vanguard News Nigeria