Allegedly Poisoned Nigerian Minister Battles for Survival in Abuja Hospital

Nigerian tourism minister, Lola Ade-John has been hospitalised in Abuja after suffering acute poisoning from unknown origins.

Lola Ade-John, 60, was rushed to the Federal Medical Centre, Jabi, shortly after she started manifesting symptoms of her poisoning, according to family sources familiar with her ordeal. She has spent four days at the facility as of Friday morning.

Ms Ade-John, a career banker and tech investor, has been on a machine to aid her breathing, as disclosed to newsmen. The specifics as to what substance she ingested and how could not be immediately established by The Gazette. The police and the State Security Service did not immediately return a request on whether or not any investigations had been opened into the matter.  

Her worsening situation has further set the family against the government, with the permanent secretary of her ministry said to be in disagreement as to whether she should continue receiving treatment at a public hospital or be moved to a better-equipped private facility downtown. 

The permanent secretary, Ngozi Onwudike, was said to have insisted that the minister should not be transferred because the FMC is a public hospital and its services wouldn’t attract substantial charges to the government, a position her family rebuffed. But they remained with her as they could not raise funds to move her to a private hospital, our sources said. A phone number for the permanent secretary did not connect on Friday morning. 

A spokesperson for the FMC did not immediately return a request seeking comments from newsmen about Ms Ade-John’s condition. 

Ms Ade-John was appointed as a minister by President Bola Tinubu in August. She was immediately touted as one of the few cabinet members appointed from outside the political beltway. She was based in London for years before she was asked to return to the country to serve by the president.

Independence Day: FG declares Monday as Public Holiday

In commemoration of Nigeria’s 63rd Independence Day anniversary, the Federal Government has declared Monday, October 2, 2023, as a public holiday.

The Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, made the declaration in Abuja on behalf of the federal government on Thursday, according to a statement by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Dr Oluwatoyin Akinlade.

The minister assured Nigerians of the President Bola Tinubu-led administration’s continued commitment to tackling challenges facing the country.

“It is today a known fact that difficult socio-economic and security challenges are global, and Nigeria is not isolated.

 The Government is daily making efforts to confront these varied and numerous challenges with all the might available until respite comes our way,” the statement quoted him as saying.

Tunji-Ojo said the greatness ahead of the country was achievable if all citizens worked together in unity.

“Our warm welcoming spirit and love as well as our unbounded human capital and the richness of our land makes Nigeria unarguably the leading black Nation in the World being Africa’s pride and beacon of hope for the Renewed Hope of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR

[28/09, 16:31] Honeydeebags: While wishing the citizens a memorable independence celebration, the Minister recalled that our founding fathers, despite the differences in faith, tribe and tongue, came together for Nigeria’s freedom which we enjoy today.

“The minister assured that this Administration through the Renew Hope Agenda will ensure a better Nigeria for all citizens, as a befitting tribute to our heroes past,” the statement added.

INEC announces dates for Ondo, Edo Guber Elections

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced dates for governorship elections in Edo and Ondo states in 2024.

The governorship election in Edo State will take place on September 21, 2024, while that of Ondo State comes up on Saturday, November 16, 2024.

INEC National Commissioner and Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee, Sam Olumekun, in a statement issued Tuesday said the tenure of the current governors of Edo and Ondo states will end on 11th November, 2024, and 23rd February, 2025, respectively.

The Commission said as provided in Section 178 (2) of the Constitution, election into the said offices shall hold not earlier than 150 days, and not later than 30 days, before the expiration of the tenure of the last holder of the offices.

Olumekun said, “The latest date for Election to the office of Governor, Edo State, is 12th October 2024 while that of Ondo State is 24th January 2025. Similarly, Section 28(1) of the Electoral Act, 2022 requires the Commission to publish Notice for the Election not later than 360 days before the date of the election.

“The governorship election will hold on Saturday 21st September 2024.”

According to the timetable and schedule of activities for the Edo State governorship elections, party primaries will hold from 1st – 24th February 2024 while the submission of the list of nominated candidates via the online portal will start at 9.00am on 4th March 2024 and close at 6.00pm on 24th March 2024.

The Commission noted that the final list of candidates will be published on 23rd April 2024 while campaigning in public by political parties commences on 24th April 2024 and ends 24 hours prior to election day on 19th September 2024.

For Ondo State, he said party primaries will hold from 6th – 27th April 2024, while the submission of the list of nominated candidates via the online portal will start at 9.00am on 29th April 2024 and close at 6.00pm on 20th May 2024.

The national commissioner added that the final list of candidates will be published on 18th June 2024 while campaign in public by political parties commences on 19th June 2024 and ends 24 hours prior to election day on 14th November 2024.

The Commission revealed that a detailed timetable and Schedule of Activities for the two elections have been uploaded to its website and social media platforms.

The Commission appealed to political parties and candidates to note the activities in the timetable for strict compliance.

Social Media Meltdown as Man Vows to Give Late Mohbad's Wife N10m for a DNA Test

Internet users have continued to react after a Nigerian man, Larry Omordia, identified as the CEO of African TV, has come forward to challenge the late singer’s wife, Omawunmi Aloba, to prove the paternity of her son, Liam Aloba. 

In a viral video sighted by our correspondent online, the elderly man explained why it is important for the late singer's wife to prove her innocence amid the controversies surrounding her husband's death.

He noted that a DNA test would be of no harm when compared to the trauma she would face from the accusations against her. The man also vowed to give the child N10 million if the DNA proved he was the singer's son.

Following his statement, some internet users have taken to social media to express divergent opinions about it.

Read some of the reactions:

If Mohbad’s wife agrees to do the DNA test, I will double the money to 20m 🙏🏽 @raycypherS

so Mohbad’s wife refused to do the DNA test? i’m afraid i’ll have to step in at this point.@charlie_1249

Iya Liam, there's nothing insensitive about Nigerians asking you do The DNA test. We all heard the recording of Mohbad where he accused you in the event he dies.

When we were dragging Naira Marley & Sam Larry it was "justice," don't turn it to "family" now you're on the spotlight. @itzlaramiles.

If she’s sure of herself, she would have come forward for the DNA before it escalated this much 

Now everyone is giving her a doubt 

I just hope it’s moh’s son koz if not @IamSignaal

Nigerian Army begins recruitment (Click for details)

The Nigerian Army has announced the commencement of 86 Regular Recruits Intake, RRI for Non-Tradesmen and women.

The Army Headquarters announced on Tuesday via a post on its verified X handle.

The recruitment exercise, according to the post, begins with online registration, which commenced on September 25 and is expected to end on October 10, 2023.

Applicants are urged to visit https://recruitment.army.mil.ng. for registration, noting that the exercise is free.

The post reads, “This is to inform the general public & all interested applicants that the online application for 86 Regular Recruits Intake for Non-Tradesmen and women has commenced.

“The application starts 25 September & ends 10 October 2023. Application Is Free at https://recruitment.army.mil.ng.

“Shortlisted candidates will participate in the State Recruitment Screening Exercise scheduled for 6 – 19 November 2023. Nigerian Army Recruitment Is FREE, Beware of Fraudsters”.

Just In: FG declares Wednesday Public Holiday

In commemoration of this year's Eid-ul-Mawlid, the Federal Government has declared Wednesday, September 27, 2023, as a public holiday.

This holiday is to celebrate the Eid-ul-Mawlid and the birth of the Holy Prophet Muhammad.

The announcement was made in a statement on Monday by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Interior, Oluwatoyin Akinlade.

She noted that the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, urged Nigerians to be tolerant.

The statement partly read, “The Minister congratulates all Muslim faithful both home and in the diaspora for witnessing this year’s occasion.

“His admonition to Nigerians is to imbibe the spirit of love, patience, tolerance and

perseverance which are deep spiritual virtues that the Holy Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) exemplified

“Tunji-Ojo also urged Nigerians, especially our youths, to embrace the virtues of hard work and peaceful disposition toward fellow humans, irrespective of faith, ideology, social class, and ethnicity, and join hands with President Bola Tinubu’s administration in its effort to build a progressive and enviable Nation that all citizens will be proud of.”

#BBNaijaAllStars: Housemates think I'm a big threat- Mercy Eke

Big Brother Naija All Stars housemate, Mercy Eke, expressed her thoughts on how her fellow contestants perceive her as a formidable contender for the N120 million grand prize in the reality show.

Mercy reiterated her perspective on why she was not nominated for possible eviction that week.

She revealed that her housemates recognised her as a significant threat to their chances of winning the competition.

She mentioned that it would have been a prudent move to put her up for eviction, but they refrained from doing so because of the strong bond they have formed, transcending the game.

Mercy reiterated this while speaking to Ebuka during the live eviction show. 

In response to Ebuka’s question about her surprise at not being nominated, Mercy clarified that it wasn’t about being liked or disliked but rather about her perceived threat level in the game.

She emphasised that despite the bond and camaraderie they had developed, her housemates still viewed her as a formidable opponent. 

In her words, “It’s not about liking. I think they already know that I am a big threat, so it would be wise to put me out there.

I take it like we are now family, so we have bonded so well, and they are now seeing beyond the game, but they still think I am a threat.”

Abba Kabir Sacked As Kano Governor

The Kano Governorship Election Petition Tribunal has sacked Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, declaring the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Nasiru Gawuna, as the winner of the March 18 election.

Yusuf, who contested on the platform of the New Nigerian Peoples Party (NNPP), was declared the winner of the election by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) after the poll in March.

Sanwo-Olu invites DSS to probe Mohbad's death

The Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu has invited the Department of State Services (DSS) to join the police in the probe of circumstances surrounding the death of singer, Ilerioluwa Oladimeji Aloba (aka Mohbad).

A statement issued on Tuesday by the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, said the government had noted the developments that had followed the death of Mohbad.

“The Government commiserates with his family and fans. We feel the pains of losing such a talented and promising young man, who made a name for himself in a highly competitive industry. May The Almighty grant his soul rest and comfort his bereaved family and fans.

“Following Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s directive, the Police in Lagos State have launched a major investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death of the young star. A 19-man police panel has been asked to unravel the mystery of the musician’s death.

“Further to this and to boost the investigation, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu has invited the Department of State Services (DSS) to join the investigation and widen the dragnet with inter-agency collaboration and use of best in class technology to unearth the truth,” Omotoso said.

The commissioner added that Sanwo-Olu has directed that all those who might have played any role whatsoever in any event leading to the death of Mohbad be made to face the law after a thorough investigation.

“Consequently, Department of State Services (DSS) has also joined the investigation so as to get justice for the youngster, his family and teeming fans.

“The Government pleads with all those who may have vital information that may assist the investigation process to avail the investigating team with such.

“Government also appeals to the investigating team to guarantee the confidentiality and protection of all witnesses who may come forward with vital information or indicative evidence that may assist the process,” he said.

According to Omotoso, the government appealed to all friends and fans of the deceased to stay calm and refrain from making inflammatory utterances and reaching prejudicial conclusions on this matter, saying that staying calm and following the process keenly would be the most solemn tribute to the memory of the departed talent.

“Besides, the grieving family should be allowed to mourn their loss in peace. It is, indeed, a difficult time for us all – the government, the family and Mohbad’s fans. Any action that can aggravate the grief should be avoided. The Police and the DSS have been admonished to brief the public on their efforts periodically,” he stated.

 

We May Exhume Mohbad's Body For Investigation-Police

Following the shocking demise of late singer, Ilerioluwa Olademeji Aloba, aka Mohbad, Benjamin Hundeyin, the Police Public Relations Officer of the Lagos State Police Command, has disclosed that it could be exhumed to aid investigation if the need arises.

The shocking demise of Mohbad on Tuesday has resulted into controversial conversations as he was buried the next day in the Ikorodu area of the State.

In an interview with media personality, Daddy Freeze, Hundeyin said the command would leave no stone unturned in the course of investigating Mohbad’s death.

SP Hundeyin said, “The Force PRO issued a statement this evening saying that an investigation would commence. And that is what we are going to do. If need be, the body would be exhumed. It’s not too late. The body can be exhumed. An autopsy can be performed. The [Force PRO’s] statement also states that people should bring whatever information they have to the Commissioner of Police in Lagos State.

That is because we don’t want to do hierarchy anymore. Take it to Force headquarters, bring it to Lagos State command, it doesn’t matter. We are going to harmonise it within ourselves and ensure that justice is done.”

Pastor Taiwo Odukoya Laid To Rest in A Private Ceremony

The Fountain of Life Church has begun the burial rites of its founder, Pastor Taiwo Odukoya.

The funeral service started 11am on Saturday at the church’s headquarters in Ilupeju, Lagos State.

The Senior Pastor of The Fountain of Life Church (TFOLC) died about a month ago in the United States.

The preacher, whose church headquarters is in the Ilupeju area of Lagos, was buried on Saturday in a private ceremony attended by family members and close associates.

A funeral service was held earlier in the day at the church’s headquarters.

Tribunal Sacks APC's Udende, Declares Suswan Winner of Senatorial Election

Tribunal sacks APC’s Udende, declares Suswam of PDP winner in Benue North EastPublished on September 8, 2023By Ejembi Ogwuche.

The Benue State Election Tribunal has declared Senator Gabriel Suswam of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as the winner of the 25 February Senatorial election in the Benue North East Senatorial District.

 Suswam defeated Emmanuel Udende of the All Progressives Congress (APC) at the tribunal and was treturned on Friday, after a judgement that lasted for over three hours.

10 Suspects Arrested Over FUOYE Student's Death

10 suspects have been arrested in connection to the death of a student of the Federal University, Oye Ekiti, Modupe Deborah.

The State Police Command, Abutu Sunday on Thursday, said it had arrested 10 suspects.

Sunday, announced via the command’s handle on X (formerly Twitter).

Sunday added that the late 200-level nursing student of the institution was declared missing within the school premises on 5/09/2023.

The PRO stated that Deborah’s body was found in a shallow grave at a distance of about 30 meters behind the nursing Lecture Hall.

Sunday said, “This is to inform the general public that the Ekiti State Commissioner of Police, CP Ogundare Dare, has ordered a thorough investigation into the cause of the death of one Atanda Modupe Deborah, a 200-level nursing student of Federal University, Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE), who was declared missing within the school premises on 5/09/2023 but found dead in a shallow grave at a distance of about 30 meters behind the nursing Lecture Hall.”

He promised that the police would ensure the perpetrators of the crime face the full wrath of the law.

“While appealing to everyone to be calm, the commissioner vows that the command will do everything possible to unearth the identity of the perpetrator(s) and ensure they are made to face the full wrath of the law.

Nigerians Raise Security Concerns as Tribunal Delivers Judgement Tomorrow September6

In barely 48 hours to the much-awaited judgment by the Presidential Election Petition Court (PEPC), Nigerians have expressed security concerns as there are indications to stage violent protests to discredit the Federal Government and security agencies over sundry socio-economic matters.

Following the announcement by the PEPC that judgment on the multiple petitions filed by the presidential candidates of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar, Labour Party (LP), Peter Obi and Allied Peoples Movement (APM), seeking to nullify the election of President Bola Tinubu, will come up tomorrow, September 6 2023.

Chief Registrar of the Court of Appeal, Umar Mohammed Bangari, who confirmed the date yesterday, said live telecast of the judgment by interested television stations will be allowed at no cost to the court.

He further assured adequate security has been put in place as only invited members of political parties and the public would be allowed into the courtroom to avoid congestion and security breaches.

The Haruna Tsammani-led five-member panel of the court had on August 1, reserved judgment, after all the parties adopted their final briefs of argument for and against the petitions.

In their final written address, Atiku and the PDP, through their legal team anchored by Chris Uche, urged the court to declare President Tinubu was not qualified to participate in the February 25 presidential poll.

The report has stirred reactions online and offline as Nigerians hope the judgement won't result into crisis.

One dead, as Bus Drivers, Task Force Officials Clash in Mile 2, Lagos

One person has been killed in a chaotic altercation between bus drivers and task force officials in Lagos.

Tension flared in Mile 2, Lagos, as bus drivers clashed with operatives of the Lagos State Task Force, resulting in the tragic loss of one life.

The dispute, which unfolded early Tuesday morning, quickly escalated into a chaotic scene. Barricades and tyres on fire were seen in the area.

Eyewitnesses reported that the conflict began when task force personnel attempted to enforce traffic regulations in the area.

Reports indicate that the situation spiralled out of control, with both sides engaging in physical altercations.

Lagos Taskforce impounds 410 okadas

Unfortunately, one person has been killed. The identity of the deceased has not yet been disclosed.

Residents have been advised to avoid the area until the situation is fully under control.

Traffic disruptions have been reported in the vicinity, and commuters are urged to seek alternative routes.

More details later…

Rema, Asake, Others Win Big At 2023 Headies Awards (See Full List)

The 16th edition of the headies award took place on Sunday at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Center in Atlanta.

The show, tagged ‘Celebrating African Renaissance,’ saw A-list artistes from the continent of Africa converge to celebrate the creativity of Pan-African talent and the event honors the best in Afrobeats.

Here is the full list of nominees and winners on the night:

Best Recording of The Year

Burna Boy – Alone

Victony, Tempoe – Soweto

Omah Lay – I’m a mess

Oxlade – Ku Lo Sa

Davido, SSC – Stand Strong

Tems – No Woman, No Cry

Album Of The Year

Asake – Mr. Money With The Vibe

Song of The Year

Burna Boy – Last Last

Best Male Artiste

Rema

Best Female Artiste

Tems

Simi

Tiwa Savage

Ayra Starr

Next Rated

Asake

Songwriter of The Year

Simi – Loyal

Omah Lay – I’m a mess

Tems – Lift me Up

Burna Boy – Alone

BNXN – In my mind

Wizard Chan – Earth Song

Producer of The Year

Rexxie – Abracadabra Remix

Afrobeats Single of The Year

Burna Boy – Last Last

Ayra Starr – Rush

Kizz Daniel, Tekno – Buga

Pheelz, BNXN – Finesse

Spyro – Who’s Your Guy

Ruger – Asiwaju

 Best RnB Single

Burna Boy, Ed Sheeran – For my mind

Ckay – Mmadu

Dami Oniru – Just 4 U

Preye – Red Wine

Chike, Flavour – Hard to find

Simi, Fave – Loyal

Best Rap Single

OdumoduBlvck – Declan Rice (WINNER)

Best Alternative Song

Obongjayar – Tinko Tinko

Best Vocal Performance (Male)

Wande Coal – Kpe Paso – Winner

Best Vocal Performance (Female)

Niniola – Memories

Simi – Loyal

Liya – Adua Remix

Waje – In Between

Preye – Red wine

Dami Oniru – Just 4 U

 Best Music Video

Director K – Calm Down

Best Collaboration

Spyro, Tiwa Savage – Who’s Your Guy Remix

Best Street-Hop Artiste

Seyi Vibez – Chance (Na Ham)

Headies Viewers’ Choice

Ruger – Asiwaju

Victony, Tempoe – Soweto

Fireboy DML, Asake – Bandana

Ayra Starr – Rush

Asake – Terminator

Mavins – Overloading (Overdose)

Crayon – Ijo (Laba Laba)

Oxlade – Ku Lo Sa

Kizz Daniel, Tekno – Buga

Pheelz, Davido – Electricity

Best West African Artiste of The Year

Black Sherif (Ghana)

 Best East African artiste of the year

Zuchu (Tanzania)

Hewan Gebreworld (Ethiopia)

Diamond Platnumz (Tanzania)

Eddy Kenzo (Uganda)

Rayvanny (Tanzania)

Best North African Artiste of The Year

Marwa Loud (Morocco)

Wegz (Egypt)

El Grande Toto (Morocco)

Soolking (Algeria)

Best Southern African Artiste of The Year

AKA (South Africa)

Nasty C (South Africa)

Costa Titch (South Africa)

Uncle Waffles (Eswatini)

Focalistic (South Africa)

DJ Tarico (Mozambique)

Best Central African Artiste of The Year

Fally Ipupa (DR Congo)

Gaz Mawete (DR Congo)

Matias Damiaso (Angola)

Emma’A (Gabon)

Libianca (Cameroon)

African Artiste Of The Year

Rema (Nigeria)

 Digital Artiste Of The Year

Rema – –WINNER

International Artiste Of The Year

Drake

Future

Selena Gomez

Don Toliver

Ed Sheeran

Lyricist On The Roll

Payper Corleone – Fly Talk Only

Best Rap Album

Blaqbonez – Young Preacher

Best Alternative Album

Basketmouth – Horoscopes

BOJ – Gbagada Express

Obongjayar – Some Nights I Dream of Doors

Cruel Santino – Subaru Boys: Final Heaven

Somadina – Heart of The Heavenly Undeniable

Native Sound System – Native World

 Best RnB Album

Johnny Drille – Home

Chike – The Brother’s Keeper

Praiz – Reckless

Waje – Waje 2.0

Dami Oniru – Matter of Time

Simi – To Be Honest

Special Recognition Award

Sound Sultan

Actor Bolanle Ninalowo Announces Separation From Wife

Nollywood actor Bolanle Ninalowo has announced the end of his marriage to his wife, Bunmi.

He made the announcement in an Instagram post on Friday.

He said they have decided to proceed with an irreconcilable marriage dissolution and urged Nigerians to respect their privacy.

Ninalowo wrote: “Finally, I accept the reality of the end to a road! A sad reality that gives room & hope for a brighter and more fulfilling future! A reality that is SAD for my loving and adorable children but necessary for a peaceful and lovable future.

“A sad reality I prayed, nurtured and worked tirelessly hard never to experience for the sake of all. A sad reality I now have to accept as I realize that my kids are much grown with a better sense of understanding and knowledge of my pain & struggles regarding them

A sad reality that screams that I won’t live or be around forever and must take care of my health & mental state for the goodness of all.

“May God help me and reward me with all I truly deserve or punish me for all I have done wrong if that be the case. In the end, we will all live with the consequences of our actions. Sad but real and true! Now I have to do and be better for the sake of the same children I fought so hard never to be separated from.

The journey thus far only makes me stronger as I come to terms with what I truly need and deserve for all my relentless hard work & efforts in life. Heartbroken but not shattered yet, I stand tall as I break this sad but true news to the same world that adores my beautiful family & I.

“My wife & I have decided to go our separate ways and headed for an irreconcilable marriage dissolution.

Please respect our privacy and pray for us during this process as we heal and move on with our independent lives while jointly taking care of what we love most, Our children! God bless all

Just In: NLC to proceed on warning strike September 5

The leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has fixed September 5, 2023, to proceed on a warning strike over the unbearable suffering faced by Nigerians after the subsidy removal policy.

President of the NLC, issued the threat on Friday after the Union's National Executive Council.

Labour also berated the Federal Government for interfering in the affairs of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), saying it would do anything to resist such undue interference.