Author: The Nation

  • Anambra monarch meets Kanu, exonerates from Biafra leader from sit-at-home, killings

    Anambra monarch meets Kanu, exonerates from Biafra leader from sit-at-home, killings

    The traditional ruler of Enugwu-Aguleri, Anambra East Council Area of Anambra State, Eze Chukwuemeka Eri, has absolved leader of Indigenous People Of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu from prevailing insecurity in the Southeast. 

    He said the IPOB leader, through his solicitor, Barr. Ifeanyi Ejimofor invited him to come as “Aka Ji Ofor Igbo” to help reach out to Ndigbo that he is not behind the Monday Sit-at-home and security challenges in the zone, including killings, bloodshed, kidnappings, robberies and molestations. 

    Speaking at his palace in Aguleri shortly after return from a meeting with Kanu in Abuja, the Monarch quoted Kanu as saying, “I don’t derive joy from seeing children being denied going to school and workers staying idle on Mondays that is the beginning of the week.

    “My vision for fighting for the emancipation and liberation of the peoples of Biafra is not such that will enslave them to economic deprivation. 

    “My suffering is not to destroy or harm rather to give voice to Ndigbo but some hoodlums have maximized my absence to perpetrate all forms of crime and criminality in the name of agitation.” 

    The Royal father further quoted Kanu to have appealed to Ndigbo to stop adhering to the Monday Sit-at-home order while showing love in unity as he warned those still enforcing the exercise to desist or face the full wrath of Ndi Igbo. 

    Read Also: Again, Kanu restates end to sit-at-home in Southeast

    Other monarchs who came to welcome Eze Eri from his journey, including traditional rulers of Mkpunando and Enugwu-Otu Aguleri, Igwe Johnson Mbanefo and Igwe Emmanuel Ejiofor, respectively corroborated his (Eri) position.

    They regretted many lives that have been lost to the hoodlums’ activities who portray themselves as freedom fighters but tarnishing image of the Biafran warlord.

    They reiterated the call on the Federal Government to release Kanu from custody.

  • Oyo State workers resume work after week-long protest

    Oyo State workers resume work after week-long protest

    Oyo State civil servants returned to their desks on Monday having called off a week-long strike called by the state’s chapters of organised labour.

    The civil servants shunned work since July 31 to protest the non-payment of salary deductions, leave bonuses and also to demand a review of pension allowances.

    The strike, called by the NLC, the Trade Union Congress, the Nigeria Union of Pensioners and the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees, paralysed government activities during the period.

    The workers demanded that Gov. Seyi Makinde must address them personally and not through proxies on all contentious issues before they would call of the strike.

    Consequently, Gov. Makinde addressed the aggrieved workers at the entrance of the civil service secretariat on Monday.

    Read Also: Flood: Oyo State govt to demolish Olodo bridge

    He appealed to the workers to return to work and assured that their demands would be looked into in due course.

    Makinde noted that the one-week protest had impacted the state’s Internally Generated Revenue negatively, and pledged that quarterly meetings would be held with union leaders to address workers’ demands.

    In his remarks, NLC chairman in Oyo State, Mr Kayode Martins, said that the unions decided to end the protest because the governor had yielded to some of their demands.

    “Also, the governor just promised to give speedy attention to other demands,’’ he noted. (NAN

  • We’re committed to national unity – Bikers

    We’re committed to national unity – Bikers

    Bikers with Attitude and Determination at the weekend said it was committed to fostering unity and culture through the motorbikes and food fest, adding that a divided nation cannot stand.

    The group, in a statement, said the Motorbikes and Food Fest, was a cherished tradition in Lagos, and the motorcycle community in Nigeria, saying it was a pleasure to witness the joy and camaraderie among their guests.

    President of The Bikers with Attitude and Determination, Mr Kayode Kosile-palmer, stated that Bikers were overwhelmed by the turnout that the event recorded.

    The statement reads: “We are overwhelmed by the incredible turnout and the vibrant energy that our attendees brought to the fest. The Motorbikes and Food Fest has become a cherished tradition in Lagos, and the Motorcycle community in Nigeria as a whole, and it was an absolute pleasure to witness the joy and camaraderie among all our guests.

    “The Motorbikes and Food Fest, a highly anticipated event that promised a day of non-stop excitement and mouthwatering delights, organised by ‘Bikers with Attitude and Determination,’ took Lagos by storm yesterday.

    “The event was a celebration of culture, cuisine, and all things motorbikes, leaving attendees with unforgettable memories and broad smiles. The fest, held at the picturesque Muri Okunola Park, Victoria Island, welcomed a diverse crowd of motorbike enthusiasts, food lovers, families, and friends, all united in their passion for good times and shared experiences. The Motorbikes and Food Fest was a true testament to the spirit of togetherness and community.

    Read Also: Bikers rehabilitate Gombe schools

    “The day began with a spectacular motorbike display that left attendees in awe of the sleek and powerful machines. Enthusiasts had the opportunity to get up close and personal with a wide range of motorbike models, courtesy of participating bikers and clubs.

    “What’s a celebration without food? The Motorbikes and Food Fest did not disappoint on this front! Food vendors delighted attendees with a diverse array of delicious treats, with jollof rice and palmwine taking center stage as the stars of the show. From traditional favorites to modern twists, the food offerings catered to every palate.

    “The fest also featured entertaining games, electrifying performances by renowned and appearances by distinguished celebrities, including Kaffy, Tobi Bakare, Titi Kuti, and more. Attendees couldn’t resist dancing to the beats and laughing their hearts out throughout the day.

    “The highlight of the event was the partnership with Coscharis Motors, BMW Club of Nigeria, and Mercedes-Benz Club of Nigeria, which presented attendees with an exclusive glimpse of exotic cars that embodied luxury and craftsmanship.”

  • Kiddwaya will always be my favorite housemate – Laycon

    Kiddwaya will always be my favorite housemate – Laycon

    Reality TV star-cum-singer Laycon has revealed his all-time favourite BBNaija housemate.

    Laycon, who emerged the winner of the popular show’s Season 5 ‘Lock Down’ edition, dubbed his former housemate and current participant of the All Stars edition, Kiddwaya his favourite.

    He explained Kiddwaya would always be his fave so long as Biggie’s House was concerned because of his penchant for cruise and soft life.

    “I know I said it before, but I’ll say it again: Waya will always be my fav housemate as long as he’s in a big brother house, cause I no like wahala. Just cruise and chop life,” he wrote

    During the ‘Lock Down’ edition, fans and viewers were intrigued by the love triangle including Laycon, Erica and Kiddwaya.

    Laycon had expressed his feelings for Erica but Erica preferred the charm and accent, which Kiddwaya flaunted since the start of the show.

    She however, often admired Laycon’s mental capacity as well as his intellectual conversations even as Kiddwaya’s charm kept her on ‘lock down’.

    Read Also: Laycon, Miracle, Whitemoney didn’t deserve to win BBNaija – Angel

    Weeks after the end of the show in an interview, Laycon who maintained an enviable brotherly relationship with Kidd even in the midst of having to see his love interest get intimate with another in the House, described the billionaire son as a wonderful personality while commenting on their alliance.

     “I don’t how my friendship with kiddwaya started but I know for a fact that before Erica left I was comfortable with their relationship.

    “Kiddwaya is a wonderful person, he is likable and a cruise guy. So, because kiddwaya is my guy I was cool with them,” he stated.

  • BBNaija’s Tacha tips Mercy Eke for top five

    BBNaija’s Tacha tips Mercy Eke for top five

    Former Big Brother Naija ‘Pepper Dem’ housemate Tacha has stated her top 5 All stars finalists.

    Tacha, who is one of the ex-housemates not participating in the show, made the prediction via her YouTube channel on Sunday.

    She tipped CeeC, Alex, Cross, Angel and Mercy Eke to be among the season’s five finalists.

    She said: “I have to name my top five. Who will be in my top five? I’m trying to not be wrong. I’m trying to be right.

    Read Also: Actress Iyabo Ojo rallies support for BBN favourite Mercy Eke

    “Definitely, CeeC will be in my top five. I’m seeing Alex in that top five. Alex, you’ve to play your game, and you’ve to play good. I’m seeing Cross in that top five. I’m seeing Angel in that top five, and I’m seeing Mercy in that top five.

    “I mean, don’t blame me if I’m listing four females in that top five, because the girls in that house are really strong. So, don’t be surprised if it’s four girls and just one man standing in the top five,” she said.

    The organisers of the Big Brother Naija All Stars reality show had announced a grand prize of N120 million for whoever emerged as the winner of the show

  • BBNaija’s Nina berates Ilebaye for age-shaming CeeC

    BBNaija’s Nina berates Ilebaye for age-shaming CeeC

    Former Big Brother Naija housemate Nina Ivy has berated her junior colleague, Ilebaye for age-shaming CeeC during their fight.

    A serious quarrel between Ilebaye and CeeC ensued after the Saturday night party with the former age shaming the latter.       

    Ilebaye had indicated that she’s achieved so much at 22 while CeeC is still in the house competing for the BBN prize.

    Nina Ivy took to her Twitter page to react by blasting Ilebaye for age-shaming CeeC who co-starred with her in season 3 of the BBNaija show.        

    The light-skinned star noted that she had also been in the house at even a younger age of 21 and didn’t go around kissing all the guys in the house.

    Read Also: Why I stopped Ilebaye from getting ‘lit’ with Cross – CeeC

    Nina further mentioned that she didn’t need the All Stars show to patch up a dying brand like her junior colleague.

    She wrote: “Its ilebaye age shaming Ceec 4 me, wel I ws 21 when I entered Bbn , gt 2 finals , I wasnt kissin all the guys in d house atleast I stayed with one till d show ended , I didn’t need Bbn All stars to patch up my brand , I worked on my brand and it’s still standing strong . Girl bye”.

  • Excessive alcohol intake made me misbehave after party – Ilebaye

    Excessive alcohol intake made me misbehave after party – Ilebaye

    Big Brother Naija controversial All Stars housemate Ilebaye has attributed her misbehavior over the weekend to excessive alcohol consumption.

    She said the reason for her altercation with fellow housemates, CeeC and Doyin on Saturday was as a result of too much alcohol intake.

    The Nation recalls that Ilebaye had physical confrontations with some female housemates after the Saturday night party where she pulled CeeC’s hair and pushed Doyin out of the way after being called to the diary room by Biggie.

    However, in a chat with fellow housemates on Sunday, Ilebaye insinuated that whiskey was responsible for her nonchalant behaviour, claiming that she doesn’t drink whiskey.

    Read Also: Why I stopped Ilebaye from getting ‘lit’ with Cross – CeeC

    “Was there whiskey in the drink yesterday?” she asked.

    Adekunle replied: “I don’t know. It was Cross that was mixing the drinks. I think there was probably whiskey.”

    Ilebaye questioned: “I know I drank Kiddwaya’s drink. Did he mix it?”

    Seyi replied: “I believe he mixed it.”

    Ilebaye said: “I don’t do mixed drinks. I don’t drink whiskey”.

  • I probably would have been disqualified twice, says BBNaija’s Erica

    I probably would have been disqualified twice, says BBNaija’s Erica

    Former Big Brother ‘lockdown’ housemate Erica has reacted to the verbal exchange between BBNaijaAllStars housemates Ilebaye and Ceec.

    The duo on Saturday post party traded words and engaged physically.

    CeeC confronted Ilebaye alleging she has clocked the latter’s strategy and cannot wait to see her kicked off the show.

    During the confrontation, Ilebaye who has been at loggerheads with different housemates, pulled Ceec’s wig and pushed her neck.

    Read Also: Princess faking American accent, says Uriel

    She also pushed Doyin who was trying to calm her down

    Reacting, Erica who was disqualified from the show for flouting the House rules in 2021, tweeted: “I probably would have been disqualified twice”.

  • BBNaija All-Stars: Ilebaye gets double strikes for physical violence

    BBNaija All-Stars: Ilebaye gets double strikes for physical violence

    Big Brother Naija season 8 has kicked off its ‘strike’ spree with Ilebaye getting issued with double strikes for being physically violent with fellow housemates, CeeC and Doyin. 

    Ilebaye got into a fight with Cee-C and Doyin, in which she got physical with the housemates.

    However, Biggie deemed Cee-C as guilty of provocation and bullying, escalating what was already a tense situation.

    Read Also: Why I stopped Ilebaye from getting ‘lit’ with Cross – CeeC

    A final general warning was issued to all the house mates.

    Ilebaye and Cee-C were also barred from the Head of House and Black Envelope games. 

    They are also excluded from the Pardon Me Please which automatically means they will be both up for eviction next week.

  • How Naira Marley proposed my verse be yanked off song – Skales

    How Naira Marley proposed my verse be yanked off song – Skales

    Rapper John Njeng-Njeng aka Skales has accused Naira Marley of requesting the removal of his verse from singer Harmonize’s song.

    He detailed how he personally drove the Tanzanian artiste to the Marlian boss’ house during his visit to Nigeria while working on his album at the time.

    He said he was taken aback when Harmonize called him days later to ask if there was any form of animosity between him and Naira Marley because the ‘Soapy’ crooner wanted his verse (which he had already sent) yanked off the song.

    According to Skales, be encouraged Harmonize to go ahead and do Marley’s bidding to ensure the successful recording of the song.

    Speaking in a podcast interview, the father of one stated: “I want to share a story that I still find crazy, you know. I have never said this before, but this is going to be my first time. 

    “So I have this brother from Tanzania, he is one of the biggest artists from East Africa, as a matter of fact, Africa. His name is Harmonize.

    Read Also: Dad only approved Yoruba for communication while growing up in UK – Naira Marley

    “So he was working on his album, he came to Nigeria. I remember I took him to Naira Marley’s house. It was all good vibes and everything. 

    “The song he did with Naira Marley, he hit me up and said I want you to give me a verse on this song. And I did it. I sent it to him. It was dope. He was like, I like it blablabla. 

    “Then weeks later, he called me and said, ‘Do you have a beef with Naira Marley?’ And I was like, ‘Beef? We were all chilling. What is going on?”

    “He was like, ‘Naira Marley just called me and told me to take your verse off the song that he didn’t know I was going to be the artist involved.’ 

    “I was like, ‘cool mehn, bro you need this thing to happen so take me off it’.”