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Nigerian-Born Singer TheHonestGuy Wins Prestigious Juno Award

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

 

Ayodeji Adeyemi, the Nigerian-born, Canada-based singer and songwriter known as TheHonestGuy, has earned a prestigious accolade at the 54th Annual Juno Awards, solidifying his place in the Canadian music industry.

Held on Sunday, March 30, 2025, at Rogers Arena in Vancouver, British Columbia, the Junos celebrated outstanding achievements in Canadian music. TheHonestGuy took home the award for Traditional R&B/Soul Recording of the Year, a recognition of his soulful artistry and growing influence in contemporary music.

His victory marks a significant milestone in his career, with many industry experts predicting even greater success ahead—including a potential Grammy nomination.

The Juno Awards, presented by the Canadian Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences (CARAS), highlight excellence across multiple genres. This year’s event saw several standout winners:

  • Tate McRae emerged as the biggest winner of the night, securing four awards, including Single of the Year for greedy, Album of the Year for THINK LATER, Artist of the Year, and Pop Album of the Year.
  • The Beaches, the Toronto-based rock band, won Group of the Year.
  • Nemahsis, a Palestinian-Canadian artist known for her deeply personal music, was named Breakthrough Artist of the Year.
  • Bbno$ claimed the TikTok JUNO Fan Choice Award, the only category voted on by fans.
  • Sum 41 was inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame, while Anne Murray received the Lifetime Achievement Award.
  • Boi-1da was honored for International Achievement, recognizing his impact on global music production.

TheHonestGuy’s Juno win not only underscores his talent and dedication but also marks him as one of the most promising voices in R&B today.

N5bn Contract Dispute: NLNG Continues Defence Against Macobarb’s Witness Olomu

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

PORTHARCOURT – The Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas Limited (NLNG) has continued its defence in a N5.074 billion contract dispute filed by indigenous contractor Macobarb International Limited, alleging a breach of contract.

The case, filed under suit number HC/2013/CS/2022 at the Rivers State High Court, commenced in 2022. Macobarb has presented documentary evidence and called a forensic accountant from Jos, Plateau State, as its witness.

Represented by a legal team led by Professor Bayo Aderelegbe, NLNG fielded a witness, Osa Olomu, who testified in court, affirming his knowledge of the disputed project. Olomu maintained that NLNG had fulfilled its contractual obligations and paid Macobarb what was duly owed.

During cross-examination, Olomu was handed exhibit YJ40d and asked by Macobarb’s counsel, Dr. Nwieke Dignity, whether the contractor had met the obligations of the first contract schedule. Specifically, he was asked to confirm whether Macobarb had successfully placed an order and paid the first installment—50% of the overseas fabrication cost—representing 57.5% of the scheduled work. Olomu responded, “Not really,” without further clarification.

When pressed on exhibits YJ40b and YJ40d concerning Macobarb’s adherence to the agreed schedule in exhibit YJ7, Olomu stated, “No, at the last session I explained to this honourable court that I cannot speak specifically on this.”

Regarding payments, Olomu contended that the N32 million referenced in exhibit YJ40A was not paid to Macobarb, asserting that it was an internal document rather than an official invoice. He stated that only N8 million was validly invoiced, of which NLNG paid N7 million between the contract start date of January 9, 2014, and its disputed termination on February 10, 2016.

The witness also argued that only invoices properly submitted in accordance with the contract were paid. When questioned about section 7(5.11) of exhibit YJ12—which stipulates that costs incurred due to the defendant’s default should be added to the contract cost—Olomu disagreed, stating, “Not correct.”

A moment of tension arose in court when the claimant’s counsel suggested that NLNG’s failure to pay the first milestone sum of N32 million was deliberate and malicious, aimed at frustrating the project’s execution. The unpaid amount, according to Macobarb’s lawyer, was uncontested by NLNG and marked the beginning of contractual breaches.

The case is scheduled to continue on April 8, 2025.

Macobarb initially filed a claim exceeding N1 billion, later amended to N5.074 billion, alleging breaches of contract B130142PPI related to access control at the NLNG plant over a three-year period. The contractor asserts that payments were to be made progressively based on verified work completion and that any delays—explicitly prohibited by the contract—would result in penalties.

Macobarb claims to have activated contractual alert clauses in response to payment delays but alleges that NLNG failed to address the issues, ultimately leading to the contract’s termination.

Nigerian Pastor Arrested in Port Harcourt Over Alleged Homosexual Conduct

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

PORT HARCOURT — A prominent pastor, known simply as Elijah, has been arrested and is under investigation by the Octopus (C4I) Strike Force unit of the Nigeria Police Force on allegations of engaging in homosexual acts, law enforcement officials confirmed.

The arrest follows a report from a church member, identified only as Patrick, who alleged that the pastor had made sexual advances toward him. Seeking to substantiate his claims, Patrick reportedly recorded a video of the cleric attempting to engage in sexual activity.

Acting on intelligence, authorities tracked the pastor to a relaxation spot in Port Harcourt, where he was taken into custody. Law enforcement sources indicated that the pastor, a native of Rivers State, has since admitted to multiple instances of homosexual conduct, allegedly involving both adults and minors.

Rivers State Police Command spokesperson SP Grace Iringe-Koko confirmed the arrest and stated that an investigation is ongoing.

FG Calls on Oil Majors to Increase Investments, Reaffirms Commitment to Industry Growth

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

 

The Federal Government has urged International Oil Companies (IOCs) operating in Nigeria to scale up investments in the country’s oil and gas sector, emphasizing that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has put in place necessary incentives to facilitate seamless and profitable operations.

Speaking at the Cross Industry Group (CIG) Meeting in Florence, Italy, organized by IOCs operating in Nigeria, Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, underscored the government’s commitment to fostering a conducive investment climate.

According to a statement issued by Nneamaka Okafor, Special Assistant on Media and Communication to the Minister, the discussions at the meeting centered on challenges, expectations, and strategies to bolster the sector’s contributions to Nigeria’s energy security and regional expansion in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Addressing industry concerns, Lokpobiri acknowledged that Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) contractors have been cited as a key challenge but stressed that EPCs will only commit when there are strong investment decisions from industry stakeholders.

“The government has fulfilled its role by implementing investment-friendly fiscal policies, including the President’s Executive Order incentivizing deepwater investments. The responsibility now lies with IOCs and other operators to make strategic investment decisions that will drive production growth and sustainability,” Lokpobiri said.

The Minister also highlighted the importance of supporting local refining efforts, noting that with new refineries coming on stream, a steady supply of crude oil will be essential. He urged oil companies to boost production to meet both domestic and international supply obligations.

As part of the government’s strategy to enhance production, Lokpobiri reaffirmed plans to enforce the “drill or drop” provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), which mandates the development of oil assets.

“We cannot allow assets to remain undeveloped for 20 to 30 years. If an operator fails to utilize an asset, it neither benefits the company nor the country. We encourage collaboration through shared resources, farm-outs, and the reassignment of underutilized assets to willing investors. Otherwise, as a responsible government, we will reclaim such assets and allocate them to those ready to develop them,” he warned.

The Minister also urged companies to explore farm-out agreements, particularly in cases where assets are close to existing infrastructure, to avoid incurring high costs on new Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) units.

Chairman of the Oil Producers Trade Section (OPTS), Osagie Osunbor, commended the Minister for his engagement with industry stakeholders and acknowledged the government’s efforts in advancing the sector.

“We appreciate the government’s commitment to fostering a favorable investment environment. The Minister’s direct engagement has provided valuable insights and has challenged us, as industry players, to intensify our efforts in boosting production,” Osunbor stated.

The Federal Government remains steadfast in its commitment to a thriving oil and gas industry and expects operators to reciprocate by making tangible investment decisions that will drive growth, sustainability, and national energy security.

Lawmaker Urges Swift Action Over Benue’s Worsening Insecurity

By
Ola Akinola
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0

 

Hon. Blessing Onuh, the lawmaker representing Otukpo-Ohimini Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, has decried the escalating insecurity in her constituency, calling for urgent intervention from the federal government.

 

Speaking with journalists on Tuesday in Abuja, the two-term legislator described the frequent attacks and killings in Otukpo, Benue State, as a national emergency requiring immediate action.

 

She urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to direct security agencies to intensify efforts to apprehend the perpetrators, bring them to justice, and restore peace in the affected communities.

 

“The killings in my constituency have reached an outrageous level in recent weeks. Every day, we witness the senseless murder of innocent people, and tragically, it is beginning to feel normal,” Onuh lamented.

 

She expressed frustration over the perceived inaction of security agencies, noting that after each attack, officials at both the state and local levels merely issue statements claiming they are “on top of the matter,” with no tangible results.

 

“I wonder why people are being killed and kidnapped repeatedly, yet nothing happens to the perpetrators. Families mourn their dead, return home, and brace for the next attack by suspected herdsmen,” she added.

 

Onuh provided chilling accounts of recent incidents, revealing that just a day prior, a retired customs officer, Mr. Onche Akatu, was brutally murdered in Asa 2 community, Otukpo Local Government Area, and two members of his family were abducted.

 

“The most painful part is that two members of his family were kidnapped after his gruesome murder. Should the dead man now rise to pay ransom for their release? My heart bleeds,” she lamented.

 

She also recalled the murder of Mrs. Felicia Ochigbo, a nursing mother who was slaughtered in the Old NTA Area of Asa community, and the recent killing of another resident, an Igbo man.

 

“Last month, in Okpomoju Community, Okete Ward of Otukpo Local Government Area, suspected herdsmen killed five men, leaving the community in mourning. According to residents, these attackers are even making threatening phone calls. Right now, people are fleeing their homes without knowing if the places they are running to are any safer,” Onuh stated.

 

She further warned that the continued attacks have forced many farmers to abandon their farmlands, exacerbating food shortages in the region.

 

Appealing to the youth in her constituency, Onuh cautioned against jungle justice and reprisal attacks, emphasizing that taking the law into their own hands would only escalate the crisis.

 

She reassured her constituents of her commitment to working with political leaders and security agencies to put an end to the violence.

 

“I will engage with political stakeholders and security heads to ensure these atrocities stop. Our people deserve to live in peace,” she pledged.

 

 

 

SIR AZUKA OKWUOSA: A DISTINGUISHED STANDARD-BEARER FOR VICTORY WITH HONOR

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

An honorable leader is one who consistently upholds integrity, honesty, respect, trustworthiness, empathy, fairness, responsibility, and compassion—championing moral principles and demonstrating an unwavering sense of duty.

The Red Chambers of the National Assembly, a revered and prestigious institution, demands leaders who embody these virtues as second nature. True leadership is defined by character, and only those who wear these attributes like a second skin can truly serve the people with distinction.

The Hallmarks of an Honorable Leader

✅ Integrity: A true leader upholds moral and ethical principles at all times, even when no one is watching.

✅ Honesty: Transparency and truthfulness define their words and actions, fostering trust and credibility.

✅ Respect: They treat everyone with dignity, valuing diverse opinions and perspectives.

✅ Trustworthiness: Their word is their bond, and they can always be relied upon to act with responsibility.

✅ Empathy: Understanding and sharing in the struggles of others, they lead with compassion and genuine concern.

✅ Fairness: They ensure justice and equality, free from bias or favoritism.

✅ Responsibility: They take ownership of their actions, remain accountable, and fulfill commitments with diligence.

✅ Compassion: A true leader is kind-hearted, extending care and support to those in need.

Azuka Okwuosa: The Ideal Choice for Anambra South

Chinyelugo is tailor-made for the Anambra South Senatorial Seat. His character, experience, and unwavering commitment to public service make him the ideal representative for the people.

Ndị APC Anambra South, if we seek victory with honor, let us stand resolutely behind Azuka Okwuosa. With him, quality representation is assured, and the voice of Anambra South will echo with strength and dignity in the Red Chambers.

#AZUKAOKWUOSAMEDIA

Lassa Fever Claims 118 Lives in Q1 2025, NCDC Intensifies Response

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

 

…DG Calls for Timely Medical Care, State Support

 

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has raised alarm over the rising cases of Lassa fever, confirming 118 deaths in the first quarter of 2025. The agency reported 3,465 suspected cases across 91 Local Government Areas in 33 states between January and March. Of these, 645 cases were confirmed, resulting in an 18.3% Case Fatality Rate (CFR).

 

The NCDC Director-General, Dr. Jide Idris, disclosed that 20 healthcare workers across eight states have been infected, underscoring the urgent need for strengthened response efforts. To combat the outbreak, the agency has activated the Lassa Fever National Emergency Operations Centre (LF-EOC) at Response Level 2, enabling better coordination between federal, state, and local authorities.

 

“In response to the outbreak, we have deployed Rapid Response Teams (RRTs) to 10 high-burden states—Kogi, Plateau, Ondo, Edo, Bauchi, Ebonyi, Taraba, Benue, Gombe, and Nasarawa,” Dr. Idris stated. “Due to evolving challenges, the deployments in Edo and Taraba were extended by 10 and 7 days, respectively.”

 

To support affected states, the NCDC has distributed personal protective equipment (PPEs), treatment medications, and issued state-specific advisories for prevention and control. However, Dr. Idris noted that response efforts are being hampered by weak community surveillance, shortages of medical personnel, and financial constraints at both state and community levels.

 

He emphasized the need for urgent government intervention, calling on state governments to subsidize Lassa fever treatment and for private sector involvement in providing essential medical supplies and public health awareness campaigns.

 

“Preventing Lassa fever requires collective action,” Dr. Idris stressed. “While NCDC and state governments lead the response, every Nigerian must play a role in reducing the spread by maintaining good hygiene and keeping their environments free of rats.”

 

The NCDC also urged healthcare workers to maintain strict infection prevention and control measures while calling on the public to seek medical attention immediately if they experience symptoms.

 

 

Matawalle Salutes President ola Ahmed Tinubu On His 73rd Birthday 

By
Victor Obabunmi
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0

 

… Commends His Renewed Hope Agenda for National Security…..

 

The Honourable Minister of Defence, H.E. Dr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle , extends heartfelt congratulations to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR on the occasion of his 73rd birthday. The Minister commended the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly in the realm of national security, which has been bolstered by the unwavering dedication of the Nigerian Military.

 

Dr. Matawalle acknowledged the President’s exceptional leadership and decisive actions that have significantly enhanced the safety and security of Nigerians across the nation in a remarkably short period. He stated, “President Tinubu has taken bold and transformative steps that are already yielding positive results in our collective pursuit of peace and safety.”

 

The Minister emphasized that history will undoubtedly recognize President Tinubu for his courageous and intentional efforts to reset and reposition the country across various sectors for a brighter future. The positive outcomes of these initiatives are becoming increasingly evident.

 

“On this special occasion of his birthday,” Dr. Matawalle continued, “I, on behalf of my family, the Ministry of Defence, and all Nigerians, wish the President long life, good health, and the fortitude to continue making the courageous decisions necessary for our nation’s development during this pivotal time.”

Your transformative policies strengthens our faith in Nigeria. Mr President, I salute your excellence.

Mothering Sunday: APC Senatorial Aspirant Azuka Okwuosa Praises Mothers’ Unwavering Love

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

*HAPPY MOTHERING SUNDAY TO OUR CATHOLIC AND ANGLICAN MOTHERS*

*Our Dear Mothers,*

You are the definition of unconditional love and we are blessed to feel that love. You are Co-creators, nurturers, moulders and Pillars that strengthen bonds, homemakers and the succour givers. You are magicians for in everything you do, whether it’s raising children, running households, or simply being a source of love and support, you do it seamlessly and with unfathomable expertise.

My gratitude also go to all mother figures who are virtuous role models, provide care, guidance, and support, with compassion and empathy, you are simply the best.

Mothers are supreme; A mother is she who can take the place of all others but whose place no one else can take. May you be richly blessed and may you reap bountifully the fruits of your labour. Amen.

*”Ndị Nne Anambra South na Anambra manụ mma oooo!”*

*SIR AZUKA OKWUOSA*
*(CHINYELUGO)*
*2025 APC ANAMBRA SOUTH SENATORIAL ASPIRANT.*

*AZUKA OKWUOSA MEDIA*

Emir Sanusi Reacts to Sallah Durbar Ban, Emphasizes Peace and Stability

By
Gladys Phillip
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0

The Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, has acknowledged the recent ban on the annual Sallah Durbar, emphasizing that the decision was made in the interest of peace and stability in the state.

 

Speaking during an Iftar dinner with eminent Islamic scholars and dignitaries at the palace on Saturday, Sanusi noted that the Durbar, while a significant cultural tradition dating back to the 15th century, is not a matter of life and death.

 

> “Peace is the backbone of progress and development in any society. While the Durbar is a valuable cultural symbol, the safety and well-being of Kano’s residents remain my utmost priority,” he stated.

 

 

 

Security Concerns Prompt Durbar Ban

 

The Kano State Commissioner of Police, CP Adamu Bakori, under a joint security arrangement, had earlier announced the ban on the proposed Eid-el-Fitr Durbar, citing intelligence reports of potential security threats.

 

In response, Emir Sanusi accepted the withdrawal of all planned activities related to the event, underscoring the need to prioritize the security and welfare of the people.

 

He further appealed to Kano residents to remain law-abiding and cooperate with security agencies in ensuring peace during and after the Sallah celebrations.

 

Government and Religious Leaders Commend Emir’s Decision

 

Representing Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Alhaji Ibrahim Umar Faruq, praised the Emir for his spirit of love and sacrifice.

 

> “The Emir has always demonstrated deep concern for his people. I recall his kindness and mentorship from my time as his student at Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) in the 1980s,” Faruq said.

 

 

 

Similarly, Professor Shehu Galadanci, the Murshid (Chief Imam) of the National Mosque and a former National Security Adviser, commended Sanusi’s wisdom and leadership.

 

> “The safety of lives and property far outweighs any cultural event. We appreciate the Emir’s commitment to promoting peace and stability in Kano,” Galadanci noted.

 

 

 

Call for Unity and Cooperation

 

While acknowledging the historical and cultural significance of the Durbar, Emir Sanusi urged all residents to focus on the bigger goal of ensuring a peaceful and prosperous Kano.

 

> “I encourage everyone to embrace unity, avoid violence, and work together for the collective good of our state,” he concluded.

 

 

 

 

Eid Mubarak to the People of Kano!

 

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