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Power restored after arcing incident on Benin-Egbin 330kV line – TCN confirms

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The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has restored power to areas affected by an arcing incident on the Benin-Egbin 330kV line. The incident occurred on Monday at around 2:47 pm, caused by a heavy system surge that led to arcing at the Egbin Transmission Substation switchyard. This resulted in a power tripping at the Egbin Generating Station, affecting power supply to the Egbin Transmission Substations’ outgoing lines.

Ndidi Mbah, TCN General Manager, Public Affairs, explained that the arcing caused lines to trip, leading to a loss of power supply to several regions, including Lagos, parts of the South West, parts of the North Central, and Abuja. The Osogbo-Ihovbor 330kV line 1 also experienced issues due to increased load.

To prevent further grid disruption, the Osogbo-Ihovbor 330kV line was temporarily cut off. The Benin-Egbin 330kV line 1 Circuit Breaker tripped at 2:56 pm, but the situation was rectified, and power supply was fully restored by 6:10 pm. Other regions, including the South Eastern region, North East, and some parts of the North Central and South West, continued to receive power without interruptions.

FG cautioned over internet shutdowns during nationwide protests

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The Dataphyte Foundation has criticized the Nigerian government for its recent internet shutdowns during the #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria protests. The foundation’s Programme Director, Femi D. Amele, emphasized that digital rights and freedom of expression are crucial components of democracy, particularly during times of civil unrest.

Dataphyte’s statement argues that the government’s communication clampdowns have severely hindered citizens’ ability to organize, seek emergency help, and hold officials accountable. The foundation highlights that such disruptions not only affect democratic engagement but also exacerbate economic and social instability by impacting essential services like businesses, education, and healthcare.

The foundation is calling for the Nigerian government to stop further communication clampdowns and ensure open, unrestricted digital channels. They urge the government to engage transparently with citizens and empower local authorities, while also encouraging citizens to use their digital platforms responsibly and advocate for their rights.

Dataphyte remains committed to promoting digital rights and good governance, aiming to support initiatives that enhance transparency and accountability in Nigeria.

Lagos Court extends protest restrictions to Gani Fawehinmi, Peace parks

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On Tuesday, a Lagos High Court extended its earlier order restricting protests to two designated venues: Gani Fawehinmi Freedom Park and Peace Park. The extension follows an application by Lagos State Attorney-General Lawal Pedro (SAN) to ensure continued public safety and peace during ongoing protests.

The extension came after the Attorney-General, represented by Hameed Oyenuga, argued that the respondents had yet to respond to the application and emphasized the need to maintain order and safety in the state. Justice S.I. Sonaike ruled in favor of the extension, citing satisfaction with the Attorney-General’s compliance with previous court orders and pre-action protocols.

The restriction aims to prevent disruptions and ensure public safety amid the protests. Defendants in the application include representatives from the Active Citizens Group, Take it Back Movement, and the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State.

Gov Soludo launches Anambra Electoral Commission for upcoming LG elections

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On Tuesday, Anambra State Governor Chukwuma Soludo inaugurated the state Independent Electoral Commission (ANSIEC) in Awka, tasked with overseeing the upcoming Local Government elections. The six-member commission, chaired by Magistrate Genevieve Osakwe, also includes Bernadine Obande, Osita Igbokwe, Chinedu Nnalue, Helen Umeh, and John Okeke.

Governor Soludo emphasized the importance of the commission’s role, urging them to provide exceptional service to the people of Anambra. The commission’s responsibilities, as outlined in the Anambra Electoral Law 2024, include organizing, supervising, and managing all aspects of the local elections, including the division of local government areas into wards or constituencies as legally required.

Niger Delta Young Leaders Forum pulls out of protest amid hijacking concerns

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The Niger Delta Young Leaders Forum has officially withdrawn from the nationwide #EndBadGovernance protest. Chief Imo Okoko, the National Chairman of the forum, made this announcement in Abuja.

In his statement, Okoko thanked the protesters and security operatives for their professionalism and civility throughout the demonstrations. He praised the government for its tolerance and empathy during the protests but noted concerns over the involvement of criminal elements, which led to looting and violence.

The forum’s decision to withdraw follows a review of the situation after five days of protest. They will now focus on collaborating with the National Civil Society of Nigeria (NCSCN) for further dialogue and advocacy with the government.

“Emotional Farewell: Afobaje’s Final Moments on the Pitch Go Viral”

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Viral Video of Afobaje’s Final Moments Sparks Outpouring of Grief and Calls for CPR Training

A poignant video capturing the final moments of beloved Yoruba vlogger and businessman Afobaje, who tragically passed away on August 3, 2024, during a football match, has gone viral on social media. The footage, shared by @naijaeverything, depicts Afobaje collapsing on the pitch, leading to a surge of emotional reactions and discussions online.

Many viewers are calling for mandatory CPR training in Nigeria, highlighting the need for better emergency preparedness and medical response in critical situations. The video has ignited a broader conversation about improving lifesaving skills and ensuring that such tragic incidents are met with appropriate and timely assistance.

See the trailer for Enioluwa Adeoluwa’s web-series ‘All of Us’ coming in August

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Enioluwa Adeoluwa has announced that his highly anticipated web series, All of Us, will premiere on August 30, 2024. The announcement came via an Instagram post, where Adeoluwa also released the official trailer for the series.

All of Us marks Adeoluwa’s debut in film production and features a cast of his friends, collectively known as “The Geng,” including Tobe Ugeh, Softmadeit, Maliya, John Merry, and Ifeoluwa Ogunjebe. The series is directed by Orire Nwanni and Oluchi Nsofor, and written by Emmanuel “Mannie” Oiseomaye.

The plot centers around a group of affluent college students who, after getting into a serious predicament, decide to conceal a secret that jeopardizes their social standings and family lives. The story follows their attempts to keep the secret under wraps.

The ensemble cast includes notable Nollywood actors such as Shaffy Bello, Iyabo Ojo, Priscilla Ojo, Yemi Solade, Kate Henshaw, Jemima Osunde, Uzee Usman, Saga Adeolu, and Divine Angel Onyinyechi.

The premiere date was initially delayed to support the #EndBadGovernance protests in Nigeria, but now the series is set to launch on YouTube at the end of August.

How a Nollywood Film Gets Made: Here’s what a director does

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In a recent interview with Pulse Nigeria, Akay Mason, the director behind the acclaimed film Elevator Baby, shared insights into his directing approach, principles, and preferences in filmmaking.

Guiding Principles and Career Path: Akay Mason, who also directed Bank Alert, Day of Destiny, and Love in a Pandemic, discussed his journey into directing. He revealed that his passion for storytelling led him to screenwriting and eventually to directing after realizing he could better bring his stories to life. His formal education at Reel Edge Film Academy in South Africa was crucial, but he values mentorship even more, seeing it as a key to understanding the craft.

Working on Set: Mason described the varied experiences of working on different sets, noting that the quality of a set is often evident from the pre-production phase. For challenging sets, he emphasized the importance of perseverance and maintaining calm to make the best out of the situation. He shared that if he detects significant logistical issues early on, he might withdraw from a project to avoid compromising his vision and integrity.

Film Ownership and Collaboration: Regarding ownership, Mason explained that directors in Nollywood often do not receive backend compensation unless they are also executive producers. This, however, does not affect his commitment to delivering high-quality work. He highlighted that a director’s reputation relies on the quality of their last project, and he strives to uphold high standards regardless of his financial stake.

Casting and Actor Preparation: When selecting actors, Mason prefers to work with those who are experienced and talented. He is selective about casting, especially when working with new actors, and stresses the importance of having actors who can perform well. For intimate scenes, he ensures a safe and respectful environment, aiming to make the actors comfortable while maintaining a professional approach.

Directing Philosophy: Mason described a good director as someone who fully understands the story and can adapt to changes, often working with last-minute adjustments. He believes that a director must follow their instincts and be flexible to navigate the unpredictable nature of filmmaking in Nollywood.

Overall, Akay Mason’s approach to directing emphasizes storytelling, preparation, and adaptability, underscoring his dedication to the craft of filmmaking.

Team Tami emotional after Toyosi asks Damilola for some space

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In an emotional post-eviction interview, Toyosi, recently eliminated from Big Brother Naija, revealed that she no longer wants to live with her teammate, Damilola. The pair were evicted after only one week in the house.

During the interview hosted by Ebuka Obi-Uchendu, Toyosi expressed her feelings about the tension between them, stating, “I love you so much, but I feel like there has been a lot of tension. She has been blaming herself too much and I want her to think without me being there.”

Toyosi explained that Damilola’s self-blame for their eviction was causing her distress and affecting their friendship. Damilola, visibly stunned by Toyosi’s decision, struggled to respond.

Ebuka encouraged them to communicate openly and address their emotions, suggesting that their long-standing friendship should be able to withstand the strains of their recent experience. He emphasized the importance of sitting down and discussing their feelings, believing that a week in the house shouldn’t damage a seven-year friendship.

As the interview concluded, both Toyosi and Damilola were moved to tears, reflecting the depth of their emotions and the complexity of their situation.

‘The Year I Turned 21’ surpasses 500 million Spotify streams

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Ayra Starr’s sophomore album, The Year I Turned 21, has reached a significant milestone, surpassing 500 million streams on Spotify. This achievement makes it the most-streamed album by an African female artist on the platform.

Released on May 30, 2024, the album features 15 tracks and has been widely praised for its fresh take on Nigerian pop music while also showcasing Ayra Starr’s international aspirations. It includes popular singles like “Commas,” “Rhythm & Blues,” and “Bad Vibes,” featuring Seyi Vibez, alongside collaborations with Nigerian artist Asake, American stars Giveon and Coco Jones, and Brazilian singer Aniita.

The album set records for the biggest opening day and week for an album by a Nigerian female artist on Spotify. The success of “Santa,” her collaboration with Jamaican producer Rvssian, which has amassed over 339 million streams, has significantly contributed to this achievement.

With this landmark, The Year I Turned 21 not only becomes the most-streamed album by an African female artist but also ranks among the most-streamed Nigerian albums on Spotify, bringing Ayra Starr closer to the 2 billion streaming mark on the platform.

Cynthia Obi-Uchendu says she wants one more child and is hoping for a boy

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Cynthia Obi-Uchendu, the wife of media personality Ebuka Obi-Uchendu, has expressed her desire to have one more child, ideally a boy.

In a recent interview on the *Mums Next Door* podcast with Big Brother Naija alumnus Maria Benjamin, Cynthia revealed her thoughts on expanding her family. When asked about her interest in having more children, Cynthia said, “Yes, I want one more.”

She also shared that her husband Ebuka’s stance on the matter is flexible, stating, “It’s not his decision. I definitely want one more; I have two girls.”

Cynthia mentioned, “My preference would be to have a boy,” adding that Ebuka is supportive of her wishes. She humorously noted, “Ebuka’s approach is very ‘Whatever you want.’ Initially, he wanted just one child due to the costs of education, but he is very fond of our kids. I’m sure if we had a third, he’d be just as obsessed.”

Laughing, Cynthia also hinted that the idea of having a fourth child is not on her current agenda.

Cynthia and Ebuka met through her older brother and connected on Twitter, eventually engaging on New Year’s Day in 2014. They got engaged in April 2015 at Sakura, a Japanese restaurant in Lagos, and married later that year in November. They have two daughters, Jeweluchi and Irubinachi.

housemates are nominated for eviction in ‘BBNaija: No loose Guard’ week 2

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In the second week of the Big Brother Naija: No Loose Guard show, all housemates, except for the two pairs who secured immunity, have been nominated for eviction. The nominated pairs this week are:

  • Nnenna and Anita (Nelita)
  • Zion and Chinwe (Zimwe)
  • Shaun and Victoria (Shatoria)
  • Nnemaka and Chinne (Ndi Nne)
  • Ben and Tjay (Beta)
  • Kingsley and Kassia (Double Kay)
  • Wanni and Handi Danbaki (WannixHandi)
  • Joseph and Samuel (Aces)
  • DJ Flo and Rhuthee (Floruish)
  • Chizoba and Onyeka (Chekas)
  • Michky and Fairme David (Radicals)

Voting is open and will close on Thursday, August 8, 2024, at 10 pm. The first week saw the eviction of Toyosi and Damilola from the Tami duo. The Mbadiwe Twins and Streeze pair are the only ones safe from eviction this week due to their wins in the Immunity and Custodian Challenges, respectively.

Tems releases music video for her single ‘Burning’

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Tems has released the music video for her single “Burning,” a track from her debut album Born In the Wild. The video, which premiered on August 5, 2024, was delayed due to nationwide protests that began on August 1st. The protests were sparked by economic hardship and the rising cost of living following recent reforms by President Bola Tinubu. Demonstrators called for a reversal of subsidy removals and a reduction in government spending.

The music video, shot in New York City, features Tems walking through iconic locations, including Times Square.

Album Details:

  • Born In the Wild includes 18 tracks, with “Burning” being the third single. The album follows her previous singles “Me & U” and “Love Me Jeje,” which features an interpolation of the classic Seyi Sodimu & Shaffy Bello song.

Recent Achievements:

  • Tems is currently on a world tour, performing popular hits like “Free Mind” and “Higher.”
  • At the 2024 BET Awards, “Me & U” won Best Gospel/Inspirational, adding to her impressive list of awards.

DJ OBI headlines Apple Music’s ‘Africa Now DJ Mix’

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The latest disc jockey to headline Apple Music’s Africa Now DJ Mix is Afrobeats DJ and entrepreneur DJ Obi. Known for his significant contributions to the African music scene, DJ Obi, whose real name is Obinna Levi Ajuonuma, has made a name for himself with his dynamic mixes and events.

Background:

  • Hometown: Lagos, Nigeria
  • Early Influence: Inspired by his father, who worked in TV and radio, and by DJ Jimmy Jatt’s influential performances.
  • Notable Achievement: DJ Obi gained international recognition in 2016 by setting the Guinness World Record for the longest DJ set, spinning for an astonishing 10 days straight.

Recent Projects:

  • During the 2020 global lockdown, he launched Obi’s House, a virtual live session that later evolved into a popular physical event.

On Headlining Africa Now DJ Mix: DJ Obi expressed his excitement, stating, “It’s a great time to see the impact African music is making on different stages worldwide. This mix is a representation of the wealth of talent that Africa has and we are constantly showcasing to the world.”

Tracklist Highlights:

  1. Kizz DanielShowa
  2. Ayra Starr ft Seyi VibesBad Vibes
  3. Wizkid ft ZlatanIDK
  4. Burna BoyCity Boys
  5. Fireboy DMLEveryday
  6. Victony ft ShallipopiLudo
  7. DJ Obi ft Ayanfe & BienTake Me Away (Acapella & Full Version)
  8. OlamideMetaverse
  9. Young John ft Kizz Daniel, Seyi VibesBig Things

The mix features a diverse selection of tracks from top African artists, showcasing the rich and varied landscape of contemporary African music.

P-Square conflict: Timeline of the rift between Paul and Peter Okoye

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In a surprising turn of events, Nigerian pop duo P-Square, consisting of twins Peter and Paul Okoye, has split up once again. This news comes just three years after their highly anticipated reunion.

Paul Okoye recently confirmed the breakup in an interview with City FM, revealing that Peter informed him of his decision to leave the group. Paul shared that Peter expressed a lack of interest in continuing their collaboration and requested that the split remain private. However, Paul felt compelled to address the situation publicly to avoid negative perceptions should he decide to resume his solo career.

Here’s a brief timeline of P-Square’s journey:

2003: The brothers officially formed P-Square and gained fame with hits like “Bizzy Body” from their 2005 album Get Squared.

2004-2011: The duo enjoyed a successful period, consistently releasing chart-topping music and solidifying their position as top African music acts.

2015: Tensions began to rise due to disagreements over management and financial issues.

2016: The feud became public, culminating in Peter’s announcement of his departure from P-Square in 2017, which led to a highly publicized fallout.

2017: Following the split, Peter adopted the stage name Mr. P, and Paul went by Rudeboy. Both pursued solo careers with mixed success.

2018: Despite their separation, Peter and Paul reunited occasionally for performances, hinting at potential reconciliation.

2021: The brothers reunited, releasing new music and appearing together publicly, sparking hope among fans for a full restoration of their relationship.

2023: P-Square’s cooperation seemed to be renewed, with both expressing a desire to work together again.

2024: The duo has split once more. Paul disclosed that Peter’s decision to quit and his subsequent actions, including a petition to the EFCC involving their older brother Jude Okoye, have further complicated their relationship.

The latest development has shocked fans, who had recently celebrated the group’s reunion.

Victony says he has undergone 4 surgeries post-accident and has one more

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Victony, who survived a severe car accident in 2021 that left him in a coma for four days, recently discussed his ongoing recovery. He revealed that he has undergone four surgeries and has one more planned after his upcoming tour.

In an interview at the Afroland festival with Adesope, Victony reflected on his journey from struggling to walk to performing energetically on stage. Despite still being in recovery, he expressed his gratitude for his progress and the blessings he has received.

He shared, “I feel blessed, and it’s evident to everyone. I’m still recovering, but I’m about to go on tour. Last year, and even recently, I had four surgeries, and I have one more to go after the tour. Yet, I see it as a blessing. I go to the hospital, see others struggling, and I’m able to go in and out, perform, and record. I take pain relievers before going on stage and am deeply thankful for the grace I’ve received. It’s not by my power; I don’t understand why I’m so blessed, but I’m grateful.”

Obaseki replaces Oshiomhole’s commissioner with Ugbodaga as Edo LG Chairman

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Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State has approved the appointment of Tijani Ugbodaga as the new Chairman of the Edo Local Government Service Commission, replacing Chief Tom Uloko. The appointment is effective immediately, as stated by Crusoe Osagie, the Special Adviser on Media Projects to the governor.

The government expressed its gratitude to Chief Tom Uloko for his service and wished him well in his future endeavors. The swearing-in ceremony for Tijani Ugbodaga will be held on a date to be announced later.

FCT NMA wants Tinubu to wake up to his responsibilities, address hunger crisis

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The FCT Chapter of the Nigeria Medical Association (NMA) has called on President Bola Tinubu to address the critical issues that have led to the nationwide protests. Dr. Charles Ugwuanyi, the chairman of the association, highlighted that the primary cause of the protests is widespread hunger, driven by the escalating cost of food, which is severely affecting Nigerians.

Dr. Ugwuanyi urged the president to implement measures to make the economy more accommodating, allowing Nigerians to afford basic necessities. He emphasized the need for Tinubu to review and improve the country’s security situation, as it has significantly impacted various aspects of life in Nigeria.

“In recent times, President Tinubu’s desire to rescue the country from so many issues that have bedeviled it has thrown severe hardship on Nigerians,” Dr. Ugwuanyi noted. He added that despite the president’s efforts, hunger and harsh living conditions persist in many parts of the country, fueling public discontent and posing a threat to national security.

Dr. Ugwuanyi stressed that the government must urgently address the core issue of hunger and the high cost of food, as well as other economic challenges such as the soaring fuel prices, which are exacerbating the hardships faced by the people. “The president should address all these challenges and other economy-related issues like the cost of fuel that is injecting pain on the people,” he concluded.

Why fuel importers will frustrate Dangote Refinery — Obasanjo

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Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has expressed concerns about the efforts by vested interests in the fuel importation sector to undermine the Dangote Petroleum Refinery. Speaking to the Financial Times, Obasanjo highlighted the importance of the $20 billion refinery project spearheaded by Aliko Dangote and its potential to inspire both local and international investments in Nigeria.

Obasanjo remarked, “Aliko’s investment in a refinery, if it goes well, should encourage both Nigerians and non-Nigerians to invest in Nigeria.” However, he warned, “If those who are selling or supplying refined products for Nigeria feel that they will lose the lucrative opportunity, they will also make every effort to get him frustrated.”

This warning comes amid allegations from Dangote that both government and non-government officials are attempting to sabotage the refinery. The Dangote Group has accused international oil companies of either refusing to sell crude or selling it at inflated prices, up to $4 above the standard rate.

In response, the Federal Executive Council has instructed the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited to sell crude oil to Dangote Refinery and other local refineries in naira instead of U.S. dollars.

Additionally, the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) has faced criticism for allegedly granting licenses to import substandard fuel. The regulator defended its actions, claiming Dangote’s diesel is inferior to imported versions and emphasized the necessity of preventing a monopoly.

Despite these challenges, the Dangote Refinery, which began operations in Lagos last December, has started supplying diesel and aviation fuel. The refinery aims to reach its full capacity of 650,000 barrels per day by year-end, with petrol supply expected to commence in August, despite ongoing regulatory resistance.

Tinubu’s address on protests ‘empty and annoying’ – Kenneth Okonkwo

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Kenneth Okonkwo, the former Labour Party Presidential Campaign Council spokesman, has strongly criticized President Bola Tinubu’s recent broadcast addressing the #EndBadGovernance protests. Okonkwo described the speech as “bland and uninspiring,” arguing that it failed to address the pressing demands of the Nigerian people, who are protesting against hunger, hardship, deprivation, and degradation.

On Channels Television’s *Sunrise Daily*, Okonkwo stated, “The people are protesting for hunger and hardship, deprivation and degradation. And the president was compelled to speak. I wish they did not compel him. If I were a media aide, I would have preferred there was no speech at all because a bad speech is worse than no speech at all.”

Additionally, Okonkwo highlighted that the speech was leaked before its official release, calling for the dismissal of some of the president’s media aides responsible for the leak. He emphasized that President Tinubu should have directly addressed the protesters’ demands, including reversing the decision to purchase a new presidential jet and reducing the size of the cabinet.

Okonkwo also argued that the government should reinstate subsidies on petrol and electricity tariffs, describing subsidies as a form of palliative. He criticized the current administration for depreciating the standard of living in Nigeria and called for the restoration of productivity through the creation of a business-friendly environment.

Prominent figures, including Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka, senior lawyer Femi Falana, and representatives from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Labour Party (LP), have echoed Okonkwo’s sentiments, criticizing Tinubu’s speech for inadequately responding to the protests and failing to meet the demands of the Nigerian populace.