WIZKID MAKES HISTORY IN LONDON

Nigerians are making us proud once again; we've done it in science and technology, education, athletics, boxing and now, we have yet another achievement to brag about in the entertainment industry. 

Our very own star boy, Wizkid, made history on Friday night (September 29th), by becoming the first African artist to sell out, London's most iconic venue, the Royal Albert Hall, which has a staggering 5,272 seat capacity. Remarkably, tickets were even sold out, 2 days before the concert took place.

The event was part of the Albert Sessions, an initiative which enables artists who have not previously headlined at the Royal Albert Hall, to get a chance, while also offering cut-price tickets to fans.

This comes just days after Ex Super Eagles captain, Austin Jay jay Okocha, was voted as the best soccer star to ever play at Bolton’s Reebok/Macron stadium. According to the club, Okocha emerged the best after fans voted for their favourite among the five players selected.

The historic event was broadcast live on his official Facebook page and other platforms for fans all over the world to see. He eventually gave room for Wande Coal to join him on stage, describing him as one Artist he respects so much in Nigeria. 

After an electric one-hour plus performance, including giving the fans their favorite track, Ojuelegba; he closed, telling his fans that he plans to repeat a similar achievement at the O2 Arena in the coming year.

Hopefully, this is the beginning of greater success and recognition for our local artists on the International stage. Next....!

PETER SENDS LEGAL NOTICE FOR TERMINATION OF PSQUARE GROUP

Just when fans thought it was over, Nigerian twin sensation, P-Square, have caught the headlines once again; this time, for the wrong reason.

After Peter dropped some disturbing message's on his Instagram page, not forgetting that he addressed his brother, Paul, as Mr. P (His solo brand name); speculations emerged that dark clouds were gathering in the family of the Okoye's.

Without any sense of fear, Paul released what seemed to be a counter post via his own Instagram page, talking about how the birth of his twins was getting someone jealous and restless. He didn't hold back, and went on to accuse the person of having sleepless nights, and took an indirect dig at Lola, Peter's wife, saying; "Only a woman can come where there's peace and destroy it. Try me this time, I swear Nyash go open. You will know that blood is thicker and stronger than juju."

In midst of all this, fans woke up to a shocker on Sunday, when a legal notice of termination, served by Peter Okoye through his lawyer Festus Keyamo, leaked. In this document, Peter asked for a dissolution of the group; claiming that the continued partnership between him and his brother, Paul, is a threat to the life of his wife and children.

According to information emerging from LIB, Peter has accused his brother, Paul, of his unwillingness to co-operate with him, even to the extent of cancelling their planned US tour this year without informing him, and he (Peter) has exhausted all options to make it work.

He also accused Paul of slandering his wife and children with lies on social media, and alleged that they've now been receiving threatening messages.

Peter further accused his older brother, Jude, of once threatening to kill him and shoot his wife, Lola. This allegedly happened in the presence of Paul and former first lady of Cross River state, Mrs Imoke. Jude allegedly also threatened to bring a coffin for him (Peter) if he ever comes near his house.

Peter insists that he has had enough and wants out of the Psqaure group and contract. He further stated that he loves his brothers and their families, and he wishes them the very best in their careers. However, he cannot betray his wife and children, as they are his top priority.

OFFICIAL: CHELSEA AGREE TERMS WITH ATHLETICO MADRID FOR THE TRANSFER OF DIEGO COSTA

After a fallout with Chelsea coach, Antonio Conte during last season's January tranfer window, the pair seemed to have settled their differences, as Chelsea cruised to the 2016/2017 EPL title.

Unfortunately, a shocking text message from the Chelsea coach proved to be an indication that Costa was no longer needed at the club. 

Several suitors flocked around, trying to lure him to their different clubs, but based on interviews with journalists and even an Instagram stunt, it was clear that his former club, Athletico Madrid, was his preferred destination.

An official statement today, released by Chelsea FC via the club's official twitter handle, confirmed that terms have been agreed with Athletico Madrid for the transfer of the Brazilian-born striker.

At last, the big Spaniard will now have a chance to return to the club he calls home. However, the transfer will be subject to the agreement of personal terms and a medical.

An official fee has not been released by either clubs, but rumors suggest that £48.8 million with £8.8 million in add on's has been agreed. This will go on to make Diego Costa the most expensive player in Athletico Madrids history, smashing the £35 million (€40million) paid for Falcao in 2011. 

COURT OFFICIALLY DECLARES IPOB A TERRORIST ORGANISATION

After days of conflicting statements about the status of the IPOB, the Federal High Court in Abuja on Wednesday granted an order declaring the activities of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) as a terrorist organisation and “acts of terrorism and illegality.”

The order, which followed a motion filed by the filed by the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF), Abubakar Malami, also proscribed the existence of IPOB throughout Nigeria, with particular attention paid to the South-East and South-South regions.

All parties are now keenly awaiting the outcome of Nnamdi Kanu's trial which is scheduled to commence on the 17th of October. The final judgement is without doubt, significant, as it will determine the next line of action to be taken by both the Federal Government, as well as the IPOB.

ARMY DENIES DECLARING IPOB A TERRORIST ORGANISATION

Barely 3 days after the Defence Headquarters labeled the IPOB as a terrorist group in Nigeria, the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Tukur Buratai, on Monday evening has come out to deny the statement.

Speaking during the official launch of Operation Python Dance II in Abakaliki, Ebonyi state, the Army Chief argued that what the Defence Headquarters did was to make a pronouncement on IPOB and not a declaration. He added that the statement of the military gave room for the right steps to be taken on the matter.

According to Buratai: “You have to get it very clear. First of all, what the Defence Headquarters did was to make pronouncement. It wasn’t a declaration per se. But this has given room for the right step to be taken. I think the government is doing the right thing.

“It is not that we are overstepping our bounds. We are still within the limits. And I ensure you that what the military said was to set the ball rolling and to bring the awareness to the public that this is what this organization is all about. I’m happy that the government has done the right thing right now"

The Chief of Army staff, General Tukur Buratai went on to assure the people of the Southeast that the Army will abide by the rule of law and rules of engagement in carrying out Operation Egwu Eke II which kicked off on Saturday in the region.

Also in a courtesy to Governor David Umahi of Ebonyi state who was represented by his Deputy, Dr. Kelechi Igwe, the Chief of Army Staff noted that the exercise was targeted at improving the security situation of the zone which according to him, was very strategic to the security of the country.

According to him the exercise will help to bring about the much needed peace and security and also be used to train the Military in basic internal security.

“They army have taken into cognizance the security of the people in deployment of it’s personnel for the operation”.

He said the army in carrying out the operation will liaise and work with other security agencies in the region.

“The army is very sensitive to the cultural norms of the people and will abide by all the rules of engagement and code of conduct that have been laid down which is quite in tandem with the Constitution”.

He also stated that some of the activities of the exercise will include Patrols, indoor battle exercises, Civil-Military cooperation activities like medical outreach, sanitation, donation of books to schools etc.

With all this said, he made an appeal for understanding, as it is just an exercise to help improve security of lives and property within the zone.

OFFICIAL: ASUU SUSPEND STRIKE; LECTURERS TO RESUME ON TUESDAY

After a meeting with a Federal Government delegation, the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) have officially decided to suspended their strike.

After one month and six days, ASUU has dircted all university lecturers to resume duty from Tuesday, 19th September. This is however not a total end to the strike, as ASUU will be keenly waiting for the government to fulfill it's pledges before the end of October. Failure to do so might trigger the continuation of the strike, one which might hit students harder than when it commenced in August.

At the meeting, a memorandum of understanding was signed with the federal government delegation led by the Minister of Labour, Chris Ngige.

Mr. Ngige had earlier said both parties produced “collective agreement of action” after the meeting.

SOUTH-EASTERN GOVERNORS PUT BAN ON ALL IPOB ACTIVITIES

In an attempt to quel the ongoing fracas between the Indigenous People Of Biafra (IPOB), the Nigerian security forces and the Federal Government in general, an emergency meeting was scheduled at the Enugu government house on Friday 15th September by the southeast governors’ forum.

The governors saw it wise to include the leader of the IPOB, Nnamdi Kanu in their decision making, but suspicion over being assassinated by men of the Nigerian Army led to his withdrawal before the date was due.

Regardless, the meeting took place as planned, featuring governors Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, Dave Umahi, Okezie Ikpeazu, and Willie Obiano. Imo state, however, was represented by Eze Madumere, the state's deputy governor. The meeting also had in attendance, Chief Nnia Nwodo, president general of Ohanaeze Ndigbo; Ike Ekweremadu, deputy senate president, and Gen. Adamu Abubakar, the general officer commanding, 82 Division, Enugu.

After the 2 hours of deliberation, the men at the helm of affairs reached an agreement, and a communique was read by Governor Umahi, which said: “All activities of IPOB are hereby proscribed. IPOB and all other aggrieved groups are advised to articulate their position on all national issues and submit to the committee of governors and National Assembly members from Southeast zone, through the chairman, southeast governors forum."

As much as this action has put a ban on all activities of the IPOB, the resultant effect in the coming days is uncertain, owing greatly to the fact that a main player and leader of the proscribed group in question, Nnamdi Kanu, was absent. His influence and authority is well established in the group, hence, all eyes are keenly watching, in hopes that normalcy returns to areas affected by the present chaos.

ANTHONY JOSHUA: FROM NIGERIAN REJECT TO WORLD CHAMPION (THE STORY)

Anthony Joshua stood against Wladimir Klitschko, as he grabbed the world heavyweight championship title, under the Union Jack. But why wasn't he flying the green white green flag? Most people ponder; why be a Nigerian by blood, publicly show pride in your African heritage, but still profess loyalty to her Britannic Majesty? Want to find out why? Follow me as we uncover the untold story of Anthony Joshua, his rejection by Nigeria, and how it put him on the path to glory.

Born Anthony Oluwafemi Olaseni Joshua, to a Nigerian mother and a British father of Nigerian and Irish descent, on the 15th of October, 1989; he undoubtedly was a child of mixed nationality. He grew up in Watford, England, where he and his cousin, Ben lleyemi, strived to make a career out of Boxing.

AJ's mother was always keen on reminding him of his African roots and so it's no surprise that he spent some of his early years in Nigeria before returning to the UK to join Kings Langley Secondary School. While growing up on the Meriden Estate in Garston, Hertfordshire, AJ was popularly called, 'Femi' by his friends and class teachers. He was a vibrant young boy who was excellent at football and athletics, not forgetting that he broke the Year Nine 100m record with a time of 11.6 seconds.

Joshua began boxing in 2007, aged 18. Ultimately, in 2008, he made contact with Nigeria's Boxing body, asking to represent his country of origin at the Olympic Games; but after being rejected by Nigerian boxing officials, his life took new turn, and the rest they say, is history.

According to former Commonwealth champion, world title contender and chief coach of the Nigerian boxing team, Obisia Nwankpa, "He reached out to us, asking  to be part of our Olympic team, so we invited him to come down and take part in trials.

"Unfortunately, he did not appear when we asked him to and came down only when we had finished our trials, finalised our team and were about to travel for a training tour. Maybe other coaches would have accepted it, but I could not.

"It's a pity he did not get his chance at that time, but the two boxers we selected then, Durodola Olanrewaju and Onorede Ohwarieme, were outstanding and experienced and there was no way I was going to drop them for somebody I had not even seen."

Unfortunately, both Olanrewaju and Ohwarieme didn't go beyond the first bouts at the Beijing Olympic games. Olanrewaju was eliminated by Cuba's Osmay Acosta, who went on to win bronze, while Ohwarieme lost to Lithuania's Jaroslavas Jaksto. Regardless, Nwankpa believes that Joshua would not hav done any better at the time.

"Those two were great boxers and the reason they did not do so well was partly because our preparations were not really so good, and partly because there is also some politics in the way they judge these fights at amateur level."

The story took a new turn with the involvement of Jeremiah Okorodudu who represented Nigeria at the 1984 Olympic Games. He claimed that some harsh words were said to the teenage boxer.

"When they turned him back, they told him that if he was that good he should have fought for Britain," Okorodudu claimed.

It presently seems like that snub by the Nigerian boxing officials was more like a spark in Joshua's boxing career, as it spurred him to fight his way into the British Olympic team. In a space of four years, the Nigerian reject became Britain's Olympic gold medalist and a very important figure in the their Olympic boxing team.

According to Nwankpa, "Well, maybe if he had represented Nigeria at that time he would not have won gold at the Olympics. And possibly, even if he had won, he may not have achieved what he is achieving now.

"Being born in England gives him a certain amount of preference and because he is representing them, he also gets a lot of support from them; good management, and world class preparation.


"Here, it would have been difficult for him to get the kind of support that he has now. And if he doesn't have that support, he won't have fights and if he doesn't have fights, he cannot be champion," Nwankpa argues.

Again, Okorodudu did not agree with Nwankpa: "I believe he could still have achieved all that if he had fought for Nigeria. We have had boxers who have done well fighting for Nigeria. Peter Konyegwachie won silver in 1984. David Izonritei also won silver and I trained Samuel Peter for three years before he went to the Olympic Games and later became a world champion.

"So if Joshua had been given a chance here, I believe he could still have won gold and still be a world champion." On further reflection, however, Okorodudu admits it would have been a harder journey for the young champion.

"Lack of fights is a big problem for our boxers. They turn professional and there is no promotion. Joshua is where he is because he is getting good promotion, so maybe it would have been tougher for him. But because he was born in England, he could still have moved abroad, like Peter did, and that would have worked for him."

Nwankpa, insists that he has no regrets about rejecting Joshua, giving detailed reasons for that, "I would do it again because we must always do things the right way. Simply because somebody was born abroad does not mean he can just walk into our team without taking part in our trials. That would be unfair to those who sweated to take part and qualified. So no, I have no regrets at all. But I am happy for him and I wish him well in his fight against Klitschko. It will be a very tough fight."

The choices we make determine a lot in our lives; for Obisia Nwankpa, his rejection of Anthony Joshua, arguably deprived Nigeria of the glory that would have come from having a world  champion fly the green white green flag; for Joshua, the rejection he suffered was the beginning of his journey to greatness. As the saying goes, "Every dark cloud has a silver lining".

NNAMDI KANU RELEASED

After meeting his bail conditions, leader of Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) Nnamdi Kanu has been freed from Kuje prison on Friday, April 28.

Reports emanating reveal that he was driven out of the detention facility by Osita Chidoka, former aviation minister.

Justice Nyako was available to sign the necessary papers on Friday afternoon, April 28, after all the conditions given to Nnamdi Kanu for his bail was met.

Three sureties, Chairman, South East Senate caucus and former Deputy Governor of Abia State, Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, a Jewish High Chief Priest, Immanuu-El Shalom and a Chartered Accountant residing in Abuja, Tochukwu Uchendu, vouched to stand in and ensure the IPOB leader appears for trial when he is called upon.

Meanwhile, Kanu's release promted a high security presence at Kuje prison. A good number of well-armed security operatives from the military, prison and some on casual wears were seen around the prison facility.

NNAMDI KANU MEETS HIS BAIL CONDITIONS IN LESS THAN 4 DAYS

Less than 4 days after the Federal High Court in Abuja, led by Trial Justice Binta Nyako had attached what was seen by certain individuals as "Impossible", "Harsh", bail conditions to the Federal Government VS Nnamdi Kanu case, the leader of the Indigenous people of Biafra (IPOB) has, to the suprise of many, been able to meet his bail conditions.

Kanu, who has been in detention since October 14th, 2015, when he was arrested by security operatives upon his arrival to Nigeria from the United Kingdom, had his bail conditions perfected through the presence of the Chairman, South East Senate caucus and former Deputy Governor of Abia State, Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, a Jewish High Chief Priest, Immanuu-El Shalom and a Chartered Accountant residing in Abuja, Tochukwu Uchendu.

After the signing of the bail bond by the above mentioned sureties, Kanu is now expected to adhere strictly to the other conditions meted out by Justice Binta Nyako which include: The defendant must not attend any rally( He must not be in a crowd exceeding 10 persons), He must also sign an undertaken to make himself available for trial at all times.

COURT GRANTS NNAMDI KANU BAIL

After being in detention since October 14th, 2015, when he was arrested by security operatives upon his arrival to Nigeria from the United Kingdom, Nnamdi Kanu has been granted bail.

The Federal High Court sitting in Abuja reached a decision to grant bail to the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, who is facing charges bordering on treasonable felony; on health grounds.

The case which was presided over by Justice Binta Nyako, had been a back and forth affair, owing to certain unavoidable circumstances; but today, Trial Justice Binta Nyako dowsed the tension with a judgment which seems to have stirred up excitement among IPOB faithful's, while causing an opposite reaction in the Federal Government's camp.

The court held that Kanu must produce three sureties, including a “highly respected and recognised jewish leader”.

According to the court, aside a jewish leader, Kanu must also produce a “highly placed person of Igbo extraction such as a Senator”, as well as “a highly respected person who is resident and owns landed property in Abuja”. The sureties are to deposit N100million each.

As part of his conditions for bail, Kanu, was expressly barred from attending any rally or granting any form of interview.
The judge warned, “I must stress it here that the defendant must not attend any rally. He must not be in a crowd exceeding 10 persons.”

Justice Nyako equally held that Kanu must sign an undertaken to make himself available for trial at all times.

Kanu was ordered to submit his Nigerian and British international passports, even as the court compelled the Federal Government to return his wedding ring and reading glasses, which was seized from him upon detention.

Unlike Kanu, his co-defendants, Chidiebere Onwudiwe, Benjamin Madubugwu and David Nwawuisi were denied bail by the court which has fixed July 11 and 12 to commence their trial. Meanwhile, Kanu has been returned to Kuje Prison pending perfection of his bail conditions.

In attendance for the trial was, Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, alongside dignitaries.

MANCHESTER UNITED MOURN NIGERIAN FANS AFTER TRAGEDY STRIKES IN CALABAR

The Red Devils' Europa league tie against Anderlecht might have ended well for the English giants, but somewhere in the city of Calabar, Nigeria, it was a whole different story as no fewer that 30 supporters were electrocuted to death after an electric pole fell on the roof of a viewing centre where they gathered to watch the game.

According to police reports, the incident was the result of an issue with an electrical transformer at the viewing centre in which the fans had gathered.

Quoting from a police statement:“Around 10pm we were called that an incident that has happened so immediately our men went there.

“Until this morning we have about seven persons dead, we have 10 that have been admitted to hospital and another one in intensive care.

“According to the information we gathered the high tension electric cable that was very close to the viewing centre fell on the building.”

Manchester United have however expressed their sympathy at learning that a number of supporters were electrocuted in Nigeria while watching their Europa League game with Anderlecht.

The club took to it's official twitter account, composing a heartfelt message to comesurate with the families of the bereaved, thereby proving to the world that football is more than just a game. Such a rare gesture has not only put the Nigerian city of Calabar in the spotlight but it has helped football fans all over the world to realize the importance of coming together as a family in dark hours.

The Governor of Cross Rivers state, was not left out of the picture, and as the number one citizen in the state, he also sympathized with family members of those who lost their loved ones in the incident, promising to investigate and stop such from repeating itself.

He stated: “While commiserating with the families of the victims of the tragedy, the governor promised that the state government would look into the likely cause of the incident to prevent reoccurrence.

“No fewer than 30 persons died on Thursday night in Calabar at a viewing centre while watching the Europa Football League match between Manchester United and Anderlecht.

“The incident happened at about 9.30 p.m at Nyagasang area of Atimbo in Calabar Municipality Local Government Area of the state.”

Furthermore, the British High Commission in Nigeria released a statement in which they expressed sadness and sympathy over the incident: “Our deepest sympathy for the loss of lives in Calabar during a Europa League football match between.”

FRSC COMMANDER TAKES DISCIPLINE TO ANOTHER LEVEL

On Monday 10th April 2017, tension arose at the FRSC headquarters, Rivers State after the Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps in the state, Andrew Kumapayi, carried out a general inspection on the staff in Port Harcourt.

The uniforms, finger nails, as well as the hairdos of FRSC personnel was inspected and Kumapayi took it upon himself to discipline female officers whose hair styles ran foul of the requirements of the Corps, by giving them on-the-spot haircuts.

Less than 24 hrs later, reports have revealed that the corps marshal of the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC), Boboye Oyeyemi, having viewed this as an act of public disgrace to female FRSC personnel, ordered the recall of the Rivers state Sector commander, Andrew Kumapayi.

Sources quoted the head of media relations and strategy of the corps, Mr Bisi Kazeem, as saying this decision became necessary in order to properly investigate the matter.

According to Premium Times, Kumapayi, along with other officers who engaged in this act have been slammed with immediate suspension, pending the outcome of an investigation into the scenario.

JOHN MIKEL OBI WRITES TOUCHING MESSAGE TO CHELSEA FANS AS HE DEPARTS FOR CHINA

John Mikel Obi, happens to be Chelsea's second-longest-serving player, behind English International, John Terry and had just six months left on his contract at Stamford Bridge, before announcing his departure from the club to Tianjin TEDA of China.

Ahead of his departure, the Super Eagles captain decided to write a heartfelt letter to Chelsea fans all over the world after serving for 11 great years.

This move to the Chinese Super league will see the 29-year-old earn a whooping £140,000-per-week with Tianjin TEDA, making him the highest paid Nigerian footballer on the globe.

Transfer rumors placed Spanish-based Valencia as favourites to get the services of John Mikel Obi, but with this recent development, it seems that the Chinese super league has yet again proven to be a power house in the transfer market. Nigerian football fans will now be watching with keen interest to see if Mikel remains a regular for the Super Eagles, considering the fact that the Chinese super league is not rated as a top league in the world of football.

John Mikel Obi's letter to Blues supporters and staff:

"I say goodbye as a Champion of England, a Champion of Europe and proud captain of my national team.

"To play in the Premier League, the best league in the world, is every professional's ambition. But to play for Chelsea, to become part of the Chelsea family, to work with some of the best managers and players in the world, has truly been an honour."

He thinks back to some of his best moments in a Chelsea shirt, before going on to thank the staff at Stamford Bridge and everyone who supported him throughout his stay at the London club.

"None of this would have been possible without the wider club's support. to Mr Abramovic, the club's staff, coaches, physios, and to the managers I played under at Chelsea, I want to say thank you,".

"But my biggest thanks must go to the Blues fans. You brought me into the Chelsea family, you sung my name, and were there with us every step of the way. Thanks to your support, on nights like in Munich, you made the impossible possible."

Mikel, who will be joining his former Chelsea team-mate, Oscar, in the Chinese super league, then concluded with emotional words to the English Premier League leaders.

"To everyone at Chelsea - goodbye and thank you. You will always be part of who I am, and I wish you the best of luck. I could not be happier to be saying goodbye with the club back where it belongs - top of the league.

"Keep the blue flag flying high!"