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Niger, Burkina Faso, Mali’s seats at ECOWAS’ summit vacant as countries no-shows

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Despite Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso expressing their intention to exit the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), the organization reserved seats for their leaders at its 65th Ordinary Session held in Abuja on Sunday, July 7, 2024. However, these seats remained vacant as the leaders from these three countries did not attend the summit.

This absence underscored the ongoing tension between ECOWAS and the three Sahel nations, which announced their decision to leave the bloc in January 2024. The military leaders of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger convened in Niamey, Niger’s capital, a day before the ECOWAS meeting to hold the inaugural summit of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES). The AES was formed to promote economic and security cooperation among the three countries following their departure from ECOWAS, criticizing the regional body for deviating from its core responsibilities.

At the ECOWAS summit, President Bola Tinubu was re-elected as the chairman of the Community for a second consecutive year. Initially elected during the 63rd Ordinary Session in Bissau, Guinea-Bissau, in 2023, Tinubu’s new term will begin after his current tenure ends on July 9, 2024.

NiMet predicts 3-day rains from Monday

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The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has forecasted thunderstorms and rains from Monday to Wednesday across various parts of the country. Here’s a summary of the weather predictions:

### Monday:
– **Morning:** Thunderstorms in Kebbi, Kano, Katsina, Sokoto, Zamfara, Taraba, and Kaduna states.
– **Later in the Day:** Thunderstorms in Adamawa, Taraba, Kaduna, Gombe, Borno, Yobe, and Jigawa states.
– **North Central:** Rains in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Kwara, and Niger states in the morning; thunderstorms and rains later in the day in FCT, Plateau, Nasarawa, Niger, Kogi, and Benue states.
– **Southern Region:** Morning rains in Lagos, Ondo, Ebonyi, Edo, Imo, Abia, Delta, Rivers, Bayelsa, Akwa Ibom, and Cross River states; thunderstorms and intermittent rains later in the day.

### Tuesday:
– **Morning:** Partly cloudy in the northern region.
– **Afternoon/Evening:** Thunderstorms in Gombe, Bauchi, Borno, Jigawa, Yobe, Taraba, Adamawa, Katsina, Sokoto, Zamfara, Kebbi, Kano, and Kaduna states.
– **North Central:** Cloudy in the morning; thunderstorms in FCT, Nasarawa, Kogi, Plateau, Niger, and Benue states later in the day.
– **Southern Region:** Morning rains in Enugu, Abia, Imo, Edo, Ondo, Ogun, Lagos, Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, and Cross River states; thunderstorms and intermittent rains in the afternoon/evening.

### Wednesday:
– **Morning:** Thunderstorms in Sokoto, Kebbi, Katsina, Kano, and Zamfara states.
– **Later in the Day:** Thunderstorms in Jigawa, Yobe, Adamawa, Taraba, and Borno states.
– **North Central:** Partly cloudy in the morning; thunderstorms in FCT, Plateau, and Nasarawa states later in the day.
– **Southern Region:** Cloudy in the morning; thunderstorms and intermittent rains in the afternoon/evening.

NiMet advises the public to take precautions as strong winds may precede the rains in areas expecting thunderstorms. Airline operators are also encouraged to stay updated with weather reports for effective planning.

Navigating the World of Online Forex Trading

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Online forex trading has revolutionized the financial landscape, offering both beginners and seasoned traders alike new opportunities to participate in the global currency market. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help navigate this dynamic and potentially lucrative arena:

### Understanding Forex Trading

**Forex Trading Basics**: Forex, or foreign exchange, trading involves buying and selling currencies with the aim of profiting from their price movements. For example, traders might buy euros and sell dollars if they anticipate the euro’s value will rise against the dollar.

**Market Size and Operation**: The forex market is the largest financial market globally, boasting a daily trading volume exceeding $6 trillion. It operates 24 hours a day, five days a week, across different time zones, allowing traders to respond swiftly to market news and developments.

### Getting Started with Online Forex Trading

**Choosing a Broker**: Selecting a reliable forex broker is crucial. Brokers serve as intermediaries, providing trading platforms, tools, and resources. Factors to consider include regulation, trading fees, customer support quality, and the range of trading instruments offered.

**Setting Up a Trading Account**: Once you’ve chosen a broker, setting up a trading account involves providing personal information, verifying identity, and funding the account. Brokers typically offer various account types to suit different trading styles and experience levels.

**Learning the Basics**: Before trading, it’s essential to grasp foundational concepts like pips (price interest points), leverage, and margin. Many brokers offer educational resources such as tutorials, webinars, and demo accounts to help novices practice trading without risking real money.

### Developing a Trading Strategy

**Market Analysis**: Successful trading hinges on a well-defined strategy rooted in thorough market analysis. Fundamental analysis involves evaluating economic indicators and geopolitical events affecting currencies. Technical analysis, on the other hand, relies on historical price data and patterns to forecast future price movements.

**Risk Management**: Effective risk management is paramount. Strategies include setting stop-loss orders to limit losses and determining the appropriate capital to risk per trade (typically 1-2% of your trading capital).

**Keeping a Trading Journal**: Maintaining a trading journal aids in tracking trades, analyzing performance, and refining strategies over time. Record trade details, rationale, and outcomes to identify strengths and weaknesses.

### Advantages of Online Forex Trading

**Accessibility and Convenience**: Online forex trading offers accessibility with lower capital requirements compared to traditional markets. It enables trading from anywhere with an internet connection, catering to diverse schedules.

**Leverage and Flexibility**: Leverage allows traders to control larger positions with smaller initial investments, potentially amplifying profits. The forex market’s 24/5 operation provides flexibility to trade at preferred times.

**Diverse Trading Opportunities**: The market offers a variety of currency pairs (major, minor, exotic), allowing traders to capitalize on various market conditions and trading strategies.

### Conclusion

Online forex trading presents an exciting avenue for financial growth, whether as a supplementary income stream or a full-time career. Success hinges on continuous learning, disciplined execution of strategies, and staying abreast of market developments. By understanding the fundamentals and choosing a reputable broker, individuals can navigate the forex market confidently and pursue their financial goals effectively. Happy trading!

Sanwo-Olu to pensioners – Don’t give your gratuity to Churches, Mosques

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On July 4, 2024, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State addressed retirees during the 105th batch retirement bond certificate presentation ceremony, emphasizing prudent use of pension funds. He advised retirees against spending their pensions on religious donations or supporting adult children, urging them instead to prioritize their own needs and well-being.

Governor Sanwo-Olu stressed that pension funds are earned through years of hard work and should not be used to solve broader family issues. He cautioned retirees against making large pledges for religious causes, emphasizing that their responsibility was to manage their earnings wisely.

Additionally, Governor Sanwo-Olu introduced a new Pension Administration system called ‘Pay-As-You-Go’. This system aims to ensure prompt payments to retirees once all necessary procedures and approvals are completed before retirement. He highlighted this initiative as part of the Lagos State government’s commitment to improving pension administration and supporting retirees in their post-work life.

The introduction of ‘Pay-As-You-Go’ marks a significant step towards enhancing pension management efficiency and ensuring retirees receive their entitlements in a timely manner, reflecting the government’s ongoing efforts to prioritize the welfare of retired public servants in Lagos State.

Simi features Asa, Falz, Tiwa Savage, Ebenezer Obey on new album ‘Lost & Found’

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On July 5, 2024, Simi delighted fans with the release of her sixth studio album titled ‘Lost & Found’. Known for her soulful vocals and meaningful lyrics, Simi’s latest album features an impressive lineup of collaborations with some of Nigeria’s top artists. Among them are Asa, Falz, Ladipoe, Lojay, Tiwa Savage, Bella Shmurda, and the legendary Juju music icon Chief Commander Ebenezer Obey.

Ahead of the album’s debut, Simi treated fans to singles like ‘Men Are Crazy’ featuring Tiwa Savage, showcasing a rare collaboration between two female powerhouses in Nigerian music. She also reunited with Falz for ‘Borrow Me Your Baby’, continuing their successful musical partnership.

‘Lost & Found’ spans 14 tracks and marks Simi’s fourth secular solo album, arriving two years after her 2022 release ‘To Be Honest (TBH)’. In an exclusive interview with Pulse Nigeria during her album’s listening party on July 4, 2024, Simi revealed that the album’s creation was deeply personal. She scrapped a previous album to embark on this new journey of self-discovery, reconnecting with her passion for music following the birth of her daughter.

Simi expressed her hope that listeners will rediscover their love for her music through ‘Lost & Found’, which reflects her growth as an artist and her commitment to delivering heartfelt and resonant music to her audience.

Olamide’s ‘Ikigai’ sets record for biggest opening week on Spotify Nigeria in 2024

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Olamide’s surprise EP ‘Ikigai’ has made waves in the music industry, setting a new record for the biggest opening week streams on Spotify Nigeria in 2024. Released on June 27, 2024, ‘Ikigai’ garnered an impressive 7.92 million streams in its first week, according to TurnTable Charts. This achievement surpasses Shallipopi’s ‘Shakespopi,’ which received 5.7 million streams in its opening week.

The EP’s success reaffirms Olamide’s stature as one of Nigeria’s leading artists, known for his consistent influence in African rap. ‘Ikigai’ features collaborations with YBNL stars Fireboy and Asake on track 3, ‘Uptown Disco,’ and reunites Olamide with former YBNL associates Pheelz, Young Jonn, and Lil Kesh on track 7, titled ‘Synchro System.’

This release marks Olamide’s 10th solo project and 15th overall, solidifying his extensive discography and ongoing impact in Nigerian mainstream music since 1999. ‘Ikigai’ also becomes Olamide’s highest opening week stream on Spotify Nigeria, surpassing the 5.8 million streams achieved by his 2023 album ‘Unruly.’

While ‘Ikigai’ ranks fourth in the list of biggest streaming weeks for projects on Spotify Nigeria, behind Davido’s ‘Timeless’ (14.4M), Burna Boy’s ‘I Told Them’ (9.4M), and Asake’s ‘Work Of Art’ (8.3M), its performance underscores Olamide’s continued dominance and appeal in the music industry.

Singer Ayra Starr says that Nigeria and the UK are similar

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Ayra Starr, the Afrobeats singer, recently shared insights during an interview with Capital Xtra, discussing her experiences on tour with Chris Brown, her latest album “The Year I Turned 21,” and her impressions of different cultures.

When asked about her biggest culture shock in the UK compared to Nigeria, Ayra Starr mentioned that while she finds the UK quite similar to Nigeria culturally, the food was a notable difference. She specifically pointed out British cuisine, such as jellied food, as something that stood out to her.

In terms of music, Ayra Starr expressed admiration for songs like “Bitch Better Have My Money” by Rihanna and SZA’s album “SOS,” highlighting them as tracks she wished she had written herself.

She also revealed a unique talent of hers—being able to sleep anywhere, including standing up or even in a pool. Reflecting on her fan interactions, she recalled receiving a heartfelt gift from a fan during a recent arena tour—a bracelet made especially for her, which deeply touched her.

Lastly, Ayra Starr mentioned that if given the chance, she would relocate to New York City in the USA, showcasing her admiration for the vibrant city.

Kendrick Lamar continues victory lap as he releases music video for ‘Not Like Us’

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Kendrick Lamar has released the music video for his track ‘Not Like Us,’ which addresses his ongoing rap beef with Canadian rapper Drake. This release is seen as a celebratory victory lap for Lamar, who uses the video to respond to various claims made by Drake, including those about Lamar being a “false prophet” and having marital issues.

The video was shot in Lamar’s Los Angeles neighborhood of Compton, reinforcing his strong ties and acceptance in his community, in contrast to Drake’s assertions. It features appearances by Lamar’s wife and children, countering Drake’s allegations of marital discord. Additionally, Dave Free, co-director of the video, is featured, which serves to mock Drake’s claims that Free fathered Lamar’s children.

‘Not Like Us’ has been a significant success, with the music video garnering over 12 million views on YouTube within 12 hours of its release. The song has set streaming records in the United States, including the biggest opening streaming day for a rap song on Spotify. It has reached the top of the Billboard Hot 100 and recorded the second-biggest sales week for a song in 2024. Lamar’s performance of the song five times at a recent pop-out concert in Los Angeles further solidified its impact and his victory in this high-profile rap feud.

Banky W goes back to school to pursue a Master’s degree in Policy

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Nigerian singer-turned-politician Banky W has announced his return to school to pursue a Master’s degree in Policy at Georgetown University in Washington, DC. On July 4, 2024, Banky W, whose real name is Olubankole Wellington, shared a video on Instagram highlighting moments from his new academic journey.

In his caption, he wrote, “Gave up being a CEO to become a student… because sometimes you have to let go of what’s impressive to gain what’s important. I am currently pursuing a Master’s in Policy at Georgetown University in Washington, DC. The journey of faith continues. Please wish me well 🙏🏽🫶🏽🙌🏽😊.”

The announcement received widespread support and congratulatory messages from his followers, fans, and his wife, Adesua Etomi-Wellington. Adesua proudly commented, “I just want everyone to know that my husband is a true efiko and has gotten A’s so far. I’m soooo proud.” She also added, “I just came back to say I am DEEPLY INSPIRED by you, and I’m not saying this cause I’m your wife. If I weren’t your wife, I’d be jealous of your wife. You are the exact kind of man that impresses me. My honourable.”

Fans also expressed their admiration and support. One fan wrote, “It’s never too late to make your goals happen. Here is a reminder to anyone seeking to pick up on an endeavour 🙏. Congratulations.” Another follower commented, “I no even hear anything but just watching you gesticulate, I don learn a lot. A true inspiration fr.”

Another follower prayed, “May God bless your efforts. May your hard work yield abundant success, leading to personal growth, professional advancement, and a greater impact on society.”

Banky W’s decision to return to school reflects his commitment to personal and professional growth, and his journey has inspired many of his followers to pursue their own goals.

NCAA suspends 10 private jets for failing to comply with recertification process

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The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has suspended ten private jet operations for failing to initiate the recertification process required for holders of the Permit for Non-Commercial Flights (PNCF). The NCAA had directed all PNCF holders to undergo re-evaluation by April 19, 2024. This directive was issued to ensure compliance with the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations 2023 Part 18.3.4, which prohibits PNCF holders from using their aircraft for commercial operations such as carrying passengers, cargo, or mail for hire or reward.

The affected companies include:
– Azikel Dredging Nigeria Ltd
– Bli-Aviation Safety Services
– Ferry Aviation Developments Ltd
– Matrix Energy Ltd
– Marrietta Management Services Ltd
– Worldwide Skypaths Services
– Mattini Airline Services Ltd
– Aero Lead Ltd
– Sky Bird Air Ltd
– Ezuma Jets Ltd

Michael Achimugu, the NCAA’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, emphasized that engaging PNCF holders for commercial purposes is illegal and warned that the NCAA would take enforcement actions against any PNCF holder found guilty of such illegal operations. To ensure compliance, NCAA officials have been deployed to General Aviation Terminals (GAT) and private wings of airports to monitor the activities of PNCF holders.

Samoa Agreement: All you need to know about the controversial treaty signed by Tinubu

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The Samoa Agreement, recently signed by President Bola Tinubu, has become a focal point of controversy in Nigeria due to its provisions supporting LGBT rights. This international accord aims to enhance cooperation between developed and developing nations, focusing on areas such as healthcare, education, infrastructure development, and environmental sustainability. However, it also includes clauses that require signatory countries to support the recognition and rights of the LGBT community to receive financial and other forms of support.

Critics argue that the agreement imposes Western ideologies on countries with different cultural contexts, which has led to widespread criticism of President Tinubu’s decision to sign the accord. Social media platforms have seen a surge of dissenting voices, with many Nigerians expressing concerns that the agreement undermines their country’s values and sovereignty.

Proponents, however, argue that the agreement represents a progressive step towards ensuring equal rights for all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation. They contend that promoting LGBT rights is a fundamental aspect of human rights and should be embraced by all nations.

The Nigerian government, through the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has assured citizens that it would not enter into any international agreement detrimental to the country’s and its citizens’ interests. Idris emphasized that none of the 103 Articles and Provisions of the Samoa Agreement contravened the 1999 Constitution as amended, the laws of Nigeria, or other extant laws.

As the debate continues, the Nigerian government faces the challenge of balancing its commitment to international cooperation and development with the need to respect and uphold its citizens’ cultural values. The controversy surrounding the Samoa Agreement underscores the complex interplay between global standards and local traditions in an increasingly interconnected world.

Mining operators make huge profits but refuse to give FG hence rate hike – Alake

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The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced an increase in rates and charges for all activities in the mining sector. This development aims to raise the level of services, improve transaction traffic, and develop infrastructure within the sector. Dr. Dele Alake, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, disclosed this during a news briefing in Abuja, expressing concerns over non-remittance by some operators despite making significant profits.

Alake highlighted that this measure is part of the efforts to implement a seven-point agenda to position the sector for economic consolidation. He mentioned that the introduction of qualitative measures, such as the new mining information system and the Electronic Mining Cadastre System (EMC+ portal), has improved transparency, application rates, and access for applicants.

The new regime includes several changes:
– Investors applying for a mining lease license will pay ₦3 million.
– Small Scale Mining Lease (SSML) applicants will pay ₦300,000 for the first two cadastral units.
– The cost to obtain an Exploration Licence (EL) is ₦600,000 for the first 100 cadastral units.
– Quarry lease and reconnaissance permit applications will attract ₦300,000.

These changes aim to discourage speculation, address the paucity of funds, and enhance the Federal Government’s capacity to improve the ease of doing business in the sector. The new rates regime affects 268 items and includes an annual service fee and costs for renewing licenses. For example, the annual service fee for the first time is ₦31,500, while the renewal rates vary depending on the type of license.

Alake also mentioned that the new regulations seek to maximize royalties from critical minerals like lithium and gold to boost the nation’s revenue base and contribute significantly to economic development. The new rates regime takes immediate effect, impacting services rendered by the Mining Cadastral Office (MCO) and the Nigerian Geological Survey Agency (NGSA).

Governor Idris declares Monday public holiday for Islamic new year in Kebbi

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Kebbi State Governor, Nasir Idris, has declared Monday as a public holiday to mark the beginning of the new Islamic calendar, 1st Muharram 1446AH. The announcement was made by the state Commissioner for Establishment, Alhaji Auwal Manu-Dogondaji, in Birnin Kebbi on Friday. The 1st of Muharram, which signifies the Islamic New Year, falls on a Sunday, and the government has decided to shift the public holiday to Monday to acknowledge its significance.

Manu-Dogondaji extended the governor’s congratulations to the Muslim community on the advent of the new Islamic calendar. He urged Muslims to continue their fervent prayers for the peace, security, and prosperity of Kebbi State and the nation.

18 months after inauguration, Agbara Fire Station stays locked without equipment

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Eighteen months after Governor Dapo Abiodun commissioned the Agbara Fire Service Station in Ogun State, the facility remains inoperative. Despite being touted as a critical addition to support the Agbara, Lusada, and Igbesa areas, the station has not commenced operations, leaving the community reliant on a private company’s fire services.

Residents have experienced multiple fire incidents since the station’s commissioning. Notably, in February 2024, Kayode Oluwasegun almost lost his properties to a fire, but a private company with an active fire service department came to his rescue. Similarly, in November 2023, another family’s property at Katsina Close, Agbara Estate, was saved by the same private company. Over the past year, this private company, Nestle, has been a vital resource, responding swiftly to fire outbreaks in the area.

The fire station, inaugurated on February 1, 2023, was one of four new fire service stations announced by the state government, with others located in Ifo, Mowe, and Ibafo. At the inauguration, Governor Abiodun emphasized the necessity of the station for Agbara and Ifo due to their population and proximity to Lagos. However, the station was inaugurated with only one fire truck and no ambulance, falling short of the promises made.

The facility, meant to complement the ongoing construction of the 19-kilometer Agbara-Atan road, remains locked and covered in dust and weeds. Officials from the Ogun State Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Agency (TRACE) confirmed that the station has not been operational since its inauguration, and they have not seen any fire fighting equipment on the premises.

When questioned about the inactivity of the fire station, the state Commissioner for Special Duties and Government Affairs, Olufunmilayo Efuwape, directed inquiries to the state’s Director of Fire Service, Fatai Adefala, who refused to provide information. The commissioner noted that firefighters were recently employed and are still under training.

Residents, including Odunsi Saheed and Tunde Badmus, expressed their disappointment and frustration, emphasizing the need for a functional fire service station in a community with a growing population and numerous companies. They appealed to the state government to equip and operationalize the fire station to prevent further losses from fire incidents.

Gov Sani restores traditional ruler dethroned by El-Rufai-

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Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani has reinstated Chief Jonathan Zamuna as the paramount ruler of Piriga in Lere Local Government Area, highlighting the crucial role of traditional institutions as stabilizing forces. The reinstatement, which follows a court judgment issued on June 10, 2024, was announced during a meeting with the State Council of Chiefs on July 4.

Governor Sani emphasized the importance of traditional leadership in addressing the challenges facing Nigeria, praising the royal fathers for their moral leadership and contribution to community values. He committed to nurturing a robust partnership with traditional institutions and maintaining a strong collaborative framework with security agencies. This includes increased military presence in areas such as Southern Kaduna, Birnin Gwari, Giwa, Igabi, Kajuru, Kachia, Kagarko, and Chikun LGAs.

Governor Sani reaffirmed his commitment to the rule of law by fully complying with the court’s decision to restore Chief Zamuna to his position. He also called for the support and cooperation of the traditional rulers to accelerate development in Kaduna State.

The Emir of Zazzau, Nuhu Bamalli, who chairs the Kaduna State Council of Chiefs, commended the government’s focus on infrastructure development, security management, and peace promotion. He expressed satisfaction with the state’s strategic interventions and pledged the Council of Chiefs’ loyalty and support to the administration’s goals and objectives.

Governor Sani assured the traditional institutions of their continued pride of place under his administration, seeking their cooperation to enhance the state’s progress.

Opposition lawmakers advise sacked Rivers lawmakers not to pressure judiciary

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Opposition lawmakers in the House of Representatives, known as the “G60,” have called on sacked Rivers lawmakers to respect the Court of Appeal’s decision and avoid putting undue pressure on the judiciary. Speaking to the press in Abuja, Rep. Ikenga Ugochinyere (PDP-Imo) emphasized the clarity of the constitutional provision which mandates that a lawmaker must vacate their seat if they defect to another party without fulfilling specific conditions, such as party division or merger.

Ugochinyere stated that the 28 former members of the Rivers State Assembly who defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC) did so in violation of the constitution and thus remain sacked unless a competent court rules otherwise. He highlighted the need for adherence to constitutional provisions to avoid a constitutional crisis that could undermine democracy.

The lawmaker also addressed the issue of Local Government Chairmen whose tenures have expired, urging them to vacate their offices to maintain peace. He clarified that the tenure of a Local Government Chairman is explicitly defined in the Constitution and cannot be extended by other laws or policies unless the Constitution is amended.

He called on the residents of Rivers State to remain vigilant and prevent former lawmakers and Local Government Chairmen from misrepresenting themselves as current officials. Ugochinyere stressed that national discussions should prioritize issues like security, food prices, and environmental concerns rather than the actions of a few politicians.

The appeal court in Abuja recently vacated the order that had sacked 25 members of the Rivers House of Assembly who defected to the APC. The appellate court, in a unanimous decision by a three-man panel of Justices, held that the Rivers State High Court lacked the jurisdiction to issue such an order. This decision overturned the previous ruling by Justice Charles Wali of the Rivers State High Court, which had restrained the lawmakers from acting as members of the Assembly due to their defection from the party that sponsored their elections.

The appeal by the embattled Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Martin Amaewhule, and his colleagues argued that the state high court had overstepped its jurisdiction with the restraining order.

Afrobeats throwback: 14 notable hit songs from 2014

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Here are 14 notable Afrobeats hit songs from 2014 that continue to resonate in the music scene:

1. **Aye** – Davido
2. **Johnny** – Yemi Alade
3. **Tchelete (Goodlife)** – Davido & Mafikizolo
4. **Ukwu** – Timaya
5. **Surulere** – Dr Sid feat. Don Jazzy
6. **Dorobucci** – Mavins
7. **Ojuelegba** – Wizkid
8. **Girlie O (Remix)** – Patoranking feat. Tiwa Savage
9. **Shake Body** – Skales
10. **Amin** – Dammy Krane
11. **Double Wahala** – Oritse Femi
12. **Sekem** – MC Galaxy
13. **Emergency** – Wizzy Pro feat. Skales, Runtown, Patoranking
14. **Baby Hello** – Wande Coal

These songs not only defined the sound of 2014 but also contributed significantly to the growth and popularity of Afrobeats music both locally and internationally. Each track brought its unique flavor, from danceable beats to soulful melodies, capturing the essence of Nigerian music and its vibrant cultural expressions.

What ‘Oloture: The Journey’ says about the real cost of illegal japa

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“Oloture: The Journey,” a new Netflix series, continues the gripping tale of Oloture, a young journalist who ventures into the dangerous world of sex trafficking in Nigeria. The series delves deeper into her journey, highlighting the perilous routes and harrowing experiences faced by many Nigerians attempting irregular migration to Europe.

The narrative unfolds against the backdrop of Oloture’s investigative pursuit, where she goes undercover as a sex worker named Ehi to expose a network of traffickers. Through her experiences, viewers witness the brutal exploitation endured by vulnerable individuals caught in this illicit trade. The series not only portrays the horrors of trafficking but also explores the complex web of corruption, deceit, and violence that perpetuates it.

Despite achieving her primary objective of uncovering the network’s leaders, Oloture finds herself propelled forward on a perilous journey toward Europe. This decision, despite risks and tragedies, reflects the stark reality faced by many migrants seeking better opportunities abroad. The show portrays her encounters with various dangers—from untrustworthy strangers to corrupt officials and treacherous smugglers—underscoring the risks and uncertainties inherent in irregular migration routes.

The series serves as a stark reminder of the stark choices migrants face, balancing hope for a better life with the stark realities of exploitation and danger. It sheds light on the plight of those who embark on such journeys, urging viewers to reconsider the risks and advocate for safer, legal migration alternatives.

As Oloture’s story unfolds, it prompts reflection on the broader issues of migration, human trafficking, and the systemic challenges that drive individuals to undertake such perilous paths. It resonates with current events and headlines, where migrants’ struggles and tragedies often go unnoticed or underreported.

Ultimately, “Oloture: The Journey” is not just a narrative of one woman’s quest for justice but also a poignant commentary on the urgent need for systemic change and support for vulnerable populations affected by trafficking and irregular migration.

You are a sister to me – Sharon Ooja pens heartfelt note to Bisola Aiyeola

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It’s heartwarming to see such a deep bond between Sharon Ooja and Bisola Aiyeola! Sharon recently expressed her immense gratitude and love for Bisola, who played a crucial role as her chief bridesmaid during her wedding festivities. Sharon poured out her emotions on Instagram, describing Bisola as a friend who sticks closer than a sister, able to understand and support her in profound ways.

In her tribute, Sharon highlighted how Bisola’s unwavering support and ability to balance her playful nature with strength mean the world to her. She thanked Bisola for being a constant source of understanding and for helping redefine the meaning of true friendship in her life.

Bisola, touched by Sharon’s words, responded with equal affection in the comments, promising to always stand by her side, ride with her through life’s journey, and continue their strong bond into old age. Their exchange underscores the power of deep, meaningful friendships that endure through life’s ups and downs.

Their story is a reminder of how important it is to have someone like Bisola—a loyal, supportive, and understanding friend—in one’s life.

Kiekie stars in new web series ‘Shopaholic’ watch episode 1

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The new YouTube series “Shopaholic,” starring the sensational star KieKie, promises to bring excitement and adventure to viewers’ screens. Premiering on July 5 on the Lady Laide Media YouTube channel, the series is designed for both aspiring and established fashion enthusiasts.

In “Shopaholic,” KieKie takes viewers on a vibrant shopping spree across Lagos, exploring various stores and uncovering hidden gems. From fashion to gadgets, she shares her favorite finds and provides insider insights into each location. The series captures her candid reactions to Lagos’ bustling shopping scene, revealing the costs and joys of indulging in the city’s metropolitan lifestyle.

Season 1 focuses on Lagos, setting the stage for thrilling retail adventures. Future seasons will explore Abuja in Season 2, with plans for Season 3 to venture into other cities and towns. Viewers are encouraged to engage with KieKie by sharing their favorite shopping spots, ensuring each episode remains interactive and dynamic.

Episodes are released weekly, with subtitles available in French, catering to a broader audience. To stay updated, viewers are invited to subscribe to Lady Laide Media’s YouTube channel and follow them on social media for behind-the-scenes content and updates.

For sponsorship or more information, interested parties can contact Lady Laide Films Ltd. through their official channels.