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A Heartbreaking Farewell: The Town of Uwala Abaka Mourns Junior Pope

By
Benedicta
-

The town of Uwala Abaka in Ukehe, Igboetiti Local Government Area of Enugu State, was clouded in sadness and grief on Friday as the remains of beloved actor John Odonwodo, popularly known as Junior Pope, were laid to rest. The community gathered to bid farewell to the 43-year-old actor, whose untimely death has left a profound void in the hearts of many.

The burial rites began at 10:00 am with a commendation mass at St. Peter’s Catholic Parish in Ukehe. Following the mass, Junior Pope’s body was brought to his father’s compound for a lying-in-state, allowing family members, friends, colleagues, and well-wishers to pay their final respects. They were offered one last glimpse of the late actor before his body was moved to a private location for internment at about 1:30 pm.

Jennifer Awele, the late actor’s wife, was overcome with emotion, as she wept profusely during the final funeral procession. Her grief was shared by many who attended, underscoring the deep sense of loss felt by all who knew him.

Junior Pope tragically lost his life on April 10, along with four others, after their boat capsized in the Anam River in Anambra State. The group was returning from a movie shoot when the accident occurred, cutting short the life of a talented and cherished actor.

Veteran actress Rita Edochie at the burial ceremony, expressed her heartbreak upon hearing the devastating news of Junior Pope’s death. Her sentiments were echoed by many in the community, who continue to mourn the loss of a remarkable individual.

As Uwala Abaka comes to terms with this tragedy, the legacy of Junior Pope will continually live on in the memories of those he touched through his work and his life.

Sydney Talker Addresses Rumors of Secret Marriage

By
Benedicta
-

Music executive and popular content creator Sydney Talker has responded to circulating rumors about his alleged secret marriage.

Recently, fans have been sharing pictures online of Sydney dressed in a suit alongside a beautiful woman, speculating that she might be his wife.

The speculation gained traction when an X user, @Tabeetha_a, posted the photos with the caption, “Sydney Talker and his wife…” This prompted widespread curiosity and buzz among fans and followers.

However, Sydney Talker was quick to address the rumors. In a clear and straightforward response, he debunked the claims, clarifying that the woman in the pictures is not his wife, but his sister. “I’m not married. She is my sister,” he wrote, putting an end to the speculation.

This response from Sydney Talker has since quelled the rumors, setting the record straight about his relationship status.

Commenters, in response to his post of the lady being his sister, wrote on X
@Nwafresh:
“I know that lyrics… “she calls me brother, I call her sister
too.”
@ezekiel_aleke:
“Who else saw the resemblance after this tweet?”
KinqKudos:
“Oya gimme her number.”
@AkposJim:
“Why u sef go enter that kind picture and u no explain with caption say na ur sister.”
@DavidUrBloved:
“But why are you not married? What are you waiting for?”

While some easily accept the claimed truth, others remain in disbelief, and await stronger evidence to believe the claim of the talented comedian, Sydney Talker.

NDDC saves Rivers Community From Darkness

By
Divine Eleeh
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Omerelu has finally seen the light.

The people of Omerelu community in Ikwerre Local Government Area of Rivers state, were thrown into euphoria yesterday, following the inauguration of a world-class Hybrid Solar-powered streetlights setup across villages in the community by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).

In accordance with its outreach titled “Operation Light Up Niger Delta”, NDDC provided the solar power to lighten the once darkness-ridden Omopi – Omerelu community. Inaugurating  the project, the Rivers State Representative on the NDDC Board, Mr Tony Okocha, said  it will provide economic value to the community, reduce criminal activities, and also provide an aesthetic night view in the community.

Okocha thanked the Board and Management of the NDDC, headed by Mr Chiedu Ebie and Dr Samuel Ogbuku, “for rewriting the history of NDDC from widely being viewed as a cash cow to a vibrant and vivacious interventionist agency that is attracting immeasurable people-oriented projects to the good people of the Niger Delta”. In appreciation, Chairman of Omerelu Council of Chiefs, Chief L. O. Didia, thanked the NDDC Board, particularly, the Rivers State Representative on the NDDC Board, for bringing the project to the community. He also thanked their son, Dr. Anosike Orduwa, for attracting the project to the community.

Furthermore, the Commission has disclosed that communities spread across four states of the Niger Delta region have already donated parcels of land to NDDC, for the agricultural component of its  Opportunities for Programme and Engagement, titled  Project HOPE.

Lecturing at the on-boarding exercise at the NDDC Headquarters in Port Harcourt, the Managing Director of NDDC, Dr Ogbuku, said the formal engagement with the communities spread across four states of the region, (Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Imo, and Rivers) was preparatory to the commencement of the second phase of Project HOPE, expected to kick-off in June.

He explained that Project HOPE was born out of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, stating: “The program is holistic because it is all-encompassing and sustainable.” He said that the database would serve as a plank for data-driven planning, enabling the formulation of impactful policies and programs targeted at the youth.

He profusely thanked the community for the hospitality and support they gave the contractor who handled the project, which led to the completion of the project in record time.

NDDC has been providing social amenities such as electricity and water in LGAs in the state such as Etche, Ikwere, and Tai.

Students Loan Application Portal to open May 24th

By
Ezinne Okoroafor
-

Yesterday the 16th of May, 2024, the Management of Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) led by its managing director, Mr. Akintunde Sawyerr announced that the official date for the opening of the portal for student loan application is May 24th, 2024 through Nasir Ayitogo , the Media and Public Relations lead of NELFUND.

This announcement was made following the President Bola Tinubu-led administration which recently signed the revised student loan Bill into law, following the earlier 2023 student loan legislation.

According to the President Bola Tinubu-led administration, the revised Student Loan Act 2024 comes with Zero interest and repayment is 2 years post NYSC.

The benefit of using the portal is that as students, you can access loans to pursue their academic aspirations without financial constraints. The portal provides a user-friendly interface for students to submit their loan applications conveniently.

The managing director of NELFUND encouraged all eligible students to advantage of this opportunity to invest in their future and contribute to the growth and development of our nation. Students can access the portal on nelf.gov.ng to begin applications. The other benefits of the new Students Loan Act known as the Access to Higher Education Act,2024 is that there is a removal of the Family Income Barrier, a removal of the guarantor barrier and the establishment of a new government agency to regulate the loan policies and funds. If in need of more information and assistance, you are advised to contact NELFUND via email at info@nelf.gov.ng

FIDA Rivers celebrates 37 year of litigating for women, children-urges for equal training of boy, girl child

By
Leonard
-

 

By Tina Amanda

International Federation of Women Lawyers FIDA Rivers State, has called on parent, and caregivers to strike a balance in the upbringing of the boy and girl child.

The FIDA State Chairperson, Adata Bio-Briggs, stated this while commemorating International Boy Child Day and 37 years of FIDA Rivers promoting and protecting the right of women and children in the State, with a sensitization walk which kicked off from NBA House and terminated at Mile One market, in Port Harcourt,

She emphasized the girl child has been over-trained why the boy child on the loose ends, which has greatly influenced them negatively both in character and lifestyle.

“Before now the training of the boy child was relegated, we have realized now that the girl child has been over trained and out there lots of young boys do not have positive role models to speak to or show them what to do.

“They have been influenced negatively by what they see out there, they are influenced by fraudsters. They see people with money they do not ask what is the source of this money, all they know is they want to get rich.

“We need to reeducate the young boys, make them know the right way to do things. We are trying to train them on the right path by celebrating them and going for outreaches in their schools to educate them on positive masculinity.

“Make them understand that being a man does not warrant them to be aggressive. Looking at this year’s theme, that you are a man does make you aggressive, and angry, they need to take life easy.

“Their mental health is also very important to us at this level because lots of families groom the young boys to be aggressive, and hard, they will tell them as a boy you can not cry, you need to man up, and be strong. A child is a child whether a boy or a girl.

Bio-Briggs affirmed that FIDA Rivers has done a lot in protecting, promoting, and preserving the rights of women and children in the state.

“When I say we have done a lot it means we have done lots and we will keep doing, so because every day the standard keeps being raised. Am sure we have gone to all the local government areas in Rivers State, educating people about the law, and sensitizing them to the laws available to them.

“We have been litigating the rights of women, boy, girl child. We are at the forefront through our advocacy for the past thirty-seven years promoting and protecting their rights.

“In our advocacy, we have helped shape the legal world by promoting laws, we have been the backbone of some laws that have been enacted in the state. We have the Child’s rights law, we have the inheritance law and harmful traditional practices laws.

“All of these laws if you go behind, you will see FIDA has a hand in it”.

Also, the State Chairman of Nigeria Bar Association Rivers State, Victor Benibo, discouraged the act of discrimination in raising up children as every child deserves equal treatment.

He however commended FIDA for their tireless fight for the rights of women and children in the state, while assuring the organization of his full support to ensure a better society.

“We are all here to celebrate FIDA Rivers on her 37th anniversary, is not easy what they are doing and not expecting any reward. They dedicate their time, and lives, inconvenience themselves, and also add their money into the system they need to be commended and encouraged.

“I do not believe in discrimination whether boy or girl child, every child should be treated equally. What is good for child A should also be good for child B.

“In my house luckily my wife has also disused what they call domestic staff. Every child once you come on holiday, you wash your plate, iron your clothes everything you do by yourself, I encourage every parent to toll that line so these children will grow up strong”.

Highlights of the program were a free medical outreach for Mile One market women and sensitization of women’s rights under the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act.

Nigerian Artists Shine at the 2024 BET Awards Nominations

By
Benedicta
-

The 2024 BET Awards have announced their nominees, spotlighting a remarkable array of talent from across the globe, with Nigerian artists making a significant mark. Seven Nigerian artists have secured nominations this year, underscoring the country’s growing influence and prominence in the global music scene.

Leading the Nigerian nominees is Ayra Starr, who has garnered three nominations, making her the most recognized Nigerian artist in this year’s lineup. Ayra Starr’s nominations reflect her rapid rise in the industry and her ability to captivate audiences with her unique sound and style. She is closely followed by Burna Boy and Tems, each receiving two nominations. Burna Boy, often hailed as one of Africa’s biggest music exports, continues to build on his impressive international resume, while Tems’ soulful voice and powerful performances have solidified her status as a global star.

Other notable Nigerian nominees include Asake, Seyi Vibez, Davido, and Lojay. Asake and Seyi Vibez are relatively new to the international scene but have quickly gained recognition for their innovative approaches to Afrobeats. Davido, a veteran in the industry, continues to be a formidable presence with his consistent hit-making ability. Lojay’s nomination highlights his emergence as a fresh and exciting voice in Nigerian music.

From South Africa, singer Tyla stands out as the African artist with the highest number of nominations, totaling four. Tyla’s success at the nominations is a testament to the diverse talent coming from Africa and her ability to resonate with a global audience.

On the broader stage, Drake leads the overall nominations for the 2024 BET Awards with seven nods. His dominance in the nominations is indicative of his continued influence and relevance in the music industry. Following closely is Nicki Minaj, with six nominations, underscoring her enduring impact and presence in the hip-hop and pop genres.

The BET Awards have long been a platform for recognizing and celebrating Black excellence in music, film, sports, and philanthropy. This year’s nominations reflect a diverse and dynamic range of talent, with African artists continuing to make significant waves on the international stage. The inclusion of such a substantial number of African artists is a clear indication of the shifting tides in the global music industry, where African rhythms and voices are becoming increasingly influential.

In conclusion, the 2024 BET Awards nominations not only highlight the exceptional talent within Nigeria and across Africa but also celebrate the broader spectrum of achievements in the music industry.

Access Bank Empowers Young Entrepreneurs Across Nigeria, Over 100 NYSC Members Rewarded

By
Benedicta
-

In a bid to elevate entrepreneurial endeavors and eradicate financial constraints faced by startups, Access Bank has disbursed a total of N30.5 million to award over 100 National Youth Service (NYSC) members, across several states in Nigeria. The initiative, which spanned Abuja, Imo, Kebbi, Abia, Adamawa, Jos, Delta, Akwa Ibom, Ogun, and Cross River States, saw standout winners receive N1 million each.

Bayo Famoroti, Branch Manager of Access Bank in Wuse Zone 4, Abuja, spoke at the Accessprenuer program, highlighting the initiative’s objectives to nurture youth potential, stimulate economic growth, and address the prevalent funding challenges encountered by startups.

Famoroti emphasized Access Bank’s commitment to supporting the aspirations of young entrepreneurs, citing research indicating that financial constraints often lead to the failure of businesses, particularly startups. Through the bank’s all-for-one scheme, they aim to mitigate this barrier by providing financial assistance to young entrepreneurs.

Tosin Ojo, a crochet entrepreneur from the Abuja camp, expressed gratitude to Access Bank for the opportunity provided, having won the 1 million Naira competition prize, and the accompanying social media contest prize of N50,000.

Similarly, Johnson, a poultry business enthusiast from Adamawa, thanked Access Bank for empowering him with seed capital to pursue his entrepreneurial aspirations as he also won the competetion prize of 1 million Naira.

In addition to the star prize winners, Access Bank rewarded other corps members nationwide, with amounts ranging from N400,000 to N100,000 for those in the 3rd to 10th positions, respectively.

The Accessprenuer scheme has significantly impacted thousands of corps members over the years, providing vital support to kickstart new businesses and expand existing ventures.

To date, the initiative has injected over N250 million in seed capital to empower more than 600 corps members. Moreover, a vibrant Facebook community serves as a platform for Accessprenuer winners to engage with and inspire other youths, boasting a membership of approximately 5,000 individuals.

Access Bank’s unwavering commitment to nurturing entrepreneurship continues to foster economic growth and empower the next generation of business leaders across Nigeria.

IAS Advertised on NTA Claims to Crash, Leaving Users Stranded

By
Helen
-

Integral Ad Science (IAS), an investment platform advertised on the Nigeria Television Authority (NTA) on March 20, 2024, has reportedly crashed, leaving users unable to access the website.

The televised program claimed that IAS had been operating for over a decade, was ranked among the top 1000 multinational enterprises, and had a revenue of $408 million. A physical branch in Mararaba, Abuja, also opened on the same day.

During the branch opening, one of the local supervisors Mr. AbdulAziz Yusuf shared his positive experience with IAS, saying, “I have earned up to four hundred and fifty thousand Naira; last week I withdrew two hundred and thirty-four thousand Naira. I have registered my wife as an IAS member, and I have twenty people under me so far.”

Another local director, Zianab Shehu, highlighted the necessary tools a user must have before joining the platform, stating, “With your gadgets, most importantly your phone, laptop, and data, you don’t need more than this. You don’t need a certificate.”

“How does one get on board? I just sent a link to you; you download the link and complete your registration. Your phone number is your identification.”

How IAS Platform Works

IAS operated with various levels, requiring a security deposit for each level to access a specific package paid for. It is said that it has packages from Job 1 to Job 10.

Once payment was made, users were paired with a group for communication with a manager.

However, on May 14, 2024, the system allegedly crashed, just two months after the Abuja branch’s establishment.

In an interview, one of the administrators, HNY, described the situation as unfortunate, admitting he had joined the IAS platform on December 10, 2023. He revealed that he took a loan from the bank and registered close to 500 people. His primary concern now is repaying the financial institution.

“I took money from loan apps, about N600,000. I am more in pain and shock than people could imagine. The people who made us admins are nowhere to be found. We don’t know them in person, the way you came in as an employee, that was how we came in. Because of her activeness in the group, Eva Pullman, one of the managers, made us admins.”

HNY tried to contact Eva Pullman, but she insisted it was against their policy to take calls, and communication should only be through chats.

Related Story

Users Reactions

Many alleged that the NTA advertisement sparked their interest in joining IAS and reaping its benefits.

Vivian Sermon said, “And to think it was advertised through NTA. I saw the advert on NTA then. I was having doubts, but I decided to try.”

Another user, Merit Sunshine, who invested her school fees, pleaded for the system to be restored.

“Please, oh, I used my school fees to invest in this. Please, I am begging. Don’t scam me, please. Please, I am begging IAS,” she wrote.

Queen Daniel, another victim, noted, “I borrowed money to do IAS; I have not withdrawn my money, not even once, for the past three weeks. It is well.”

When a reporter called the phone number displaced on the banner captured on the NTA publication, Truecaller identified a name as Zinab Shehu, and said, she was just an employee like others who might have registered as well.

Shehu responded with “Well what you see is what we have seen there is nothing special I am an employee like you too. So your server is down my own is down too. Nobody to ask, that is just it. “

Our Enemies have been conquered -Sim Fubara As IYC backs Governor

By
Divine Eleeh
-

The Executive Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, has told members of the Ijaw Youths Council Worldwide that his government has conquered its enemies.

He said the enemies could not sleep well again or with their two eyes closed after they failed to achieve what they thought they would have done while celebrating his 365 days in office. Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, who is the current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, have fallen out An earlier attempt by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to settle the rift has failed.

While thanking the IYC members, the governor encouraged the Ijaw nation to participate in celebrating the liberation of the state. The governor delivered his speech during a gathering with the national and state leaderships of the IYC as they embarked on a solidarity walk to the Government House in Port Harcourt on Thursday.

The event commemorated the 56th anniversary of the late Maj. Isaac Adaka Boro. Niger Delta’s famous son. Fubara said that Isaac Adaka Boro championed equity, justice, and fair play, striving for the liberation of the Ijaw people and their clans.

The governor said that every true Rivers indigene is a liberator, expressing his joy at welcoming them on such a notable day to reaffirm their collective commitment to liberation and freedom.

Sim Fubara, who thanked the large crowd for their assurances of being available to respond to his call and stand by him, said there would not be any need to disrupt the peace.

He said, “Because he stood for that unique thing, even after his death, we still celebrate him because he was a liberator.

“Every Rivers man, it doesn’t matter whether you are Ijaw or upland. The most important thing is that every genuine Rivers man must be a liberator.

“ I’m happy that you have come here today. I have also received you because we have one common purpose: to liberate our dear state. We are not going back on that.

“I am happy that you’ve told me this morning that when I call on you, you will respond. But there is nothing to call on you for because we have already defeated them.

“By the special grace of God, what they thought that they would have done to us while we were celebrating our one year in office, they are the ones sleeping with their two eyes open. It shows that we have the Ijaw blood. What is that blood? It is the blood of action; less talk, more action.”

The Chairman of IYC, Eastern Zone, Tamuno Kpokpo, clarified that their visit wasn’t indicative of an ethnic conflict but rather aimed to offer support in safeguarding the interests and ongoing progress of Rivers State.

Kpokpo emphasized that the IYC would vehemently oppose any individual or group attempting to disrupt governance in the state and urged for the governor to be allowed to govern peacefully.

It is important to note that the state is undergoing a Phase As the mass resignation of Commissioners who are loyalists of the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, hits Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s administration in Rivers State, Opposition federal lawmakers known as the G-60 have said that the mass resignation was evidence that Wike initially hijacked the State government and its resources alone without giving the incumbent governor any space to breath.

The Rivers State Commissioners for Education and Housing, Professor Chinedu Mmon and Gift Worlu, on Wednesday, resigned from Governor Fubara’s cabinet, citing toxicity for their actions.

Excitement Grips Governor Fubara’s Camp as Commissioners Allegedly Aligned with Minister Wike, Resign.

By
Benedicta
-

Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s political stronghold is buzzing with enthusiasm following the recent resignation of commissioners reportedly loyal to Minister Nyesom Wike of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The resignation of approximately five commissioners from the Rivers State Executive Council on Wednesday, citing ongoing political turmoil in the state, has sparked renewed fervor within Fubara’s supporters.

The resignations are believed to be a consequence of the escalating power struggle between Governor Fubara and his predecessor, Minister Wike.

Reports indicate that the news of the resignations has ignited jubilation among Fubara’s loyalists and certain segments of the state’s populace. Plans are reportedly underway for a solidarity march to the Rivers State Government House in support of the governor.

Sydney Gbara, the spokesperson for the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in the state, conveyed the prevailing mood, attributing the jubilation to the perception that the former commissioners were “moles within the system” serving Wike’s interests. Gbara also asserted that Wike’s influence in the state has dwindled significantly, with grassroots structures of various political parties converging under the banner of the SIMplified Movement.

Echoing similar sentiments, former River States House of Assembly member Sir Jackson Belema hailed the resignations as timely, describing them as “good riddance to bad rubbish.” He further suggested that some of the resigning commissioners had fled the state with their families, insinuating that they had been manipulated by Wike. Belema concluded by urging Wike to desist from meddling in Governor Fubara’s affairs for the sake of stability in the state.

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