Africa in pictures: 13-19 February 2015

A selection of photographs from around the African continent this week:

A supporter of Zimbabwe's cricket team looks on during Thursday's nerve-wrecking match against World Cup qualifiers United Arab Emirates in New Zealand. Zimbabwe avoided an embarrassing defeat, thanks to a well-constructed 76 by left-handed batsman Sean Williams.

While in South Africa two days earlier, a man takes shade under an umbrella to escape some of the searing heat on a roadside in Masiphumelele township in Cape Town...

While this man negotiates a rapid on Thursday during South Africa's annual Dusi Canoe Marathon - one of the world's toughest races. The event is run along the Msunduzi and Mgeni Rivers, covering a distance of around 120km (74 miles). Between 1,600 and 2,000 paddlers take part each year.

A man rollerblades past election posters in Nigeria's commercial capital Lagos on Sunday evening. Nigerian will go the polls on 28 March in what is expected to be a tight contest between opposition leader Muhammadu Buhari and President Goodluck Jonathan...

Two days earlier, cooling water melon is on sale at the Wudil cattle market in the northern Kano state...

While this vendor sells chillies and other cooking essentials on the roadside in Kano state on Friday...

The next morning, residents stroll past Kano city's Central Mosque. Kano has a majority Muslim population, and has been bombed several times by militants fighting for an Islamic state.

In Kenya on Friday, a man plays the role of a priest who tries to move villagers away as a riot scene is staged by locals for UK troops training on the outskirts of Nanyuki, a market town north-west of Mount Kenya...

Here, the soldiers intervene during the staged riot. The UK has a military base in Kenya, where training exercises are held.

On the same evening, dancers perform at one of Morocco's top nightclubs, Theatro, in Marrakesh. A BBC team was there recording for the Best Nightclub in Africa series, part of its A Richer World season.

Sudanese men collect Trona, a natural form of sodium carbonate minerals, from Oasis Natron in Malha town in the north-western Darfur region on Friday...

Trona crystallizes into a glass-like rocky substance when natural forms of sodium carbonate minerals settle on water, and is used in the manufacturing of glass, chemicals, and in the production of textiles.

Tennis: Ferrer Wins Rio Open

Spaniard David Ferrer saw off Fabio Fognini 6-2 6-3 to win his first Rio Open title.

No. 9-ranked Ferrer needed just an hour and 23 minutes to close out the contest against the 32-year-old Italian.
World No. 28 Fognini ended Rafael Nadal’s 52-match winning streak in semi-finals on clay on Saturday with a 1-6 6-2 7-5 success en route to Sunday’s final.

David Ferrer in Euphoria after Winning Rio Open. Image: Getty.

Second seed Ferrer reached the final with a 7-5 6-1 win over Austrian Andreas Haider-Maurer. He twice broke Fognini’s serve in the opening set, and secured a decisive break in the fourth game of the second.
“It was my best match of the tournament and I’m very happy having won two tournaments this season,” Ferrer said.

Pastor Adeboye Suffers Great Loss | PHOTOS

The General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church Of God, Pastor E. A. Adeboye has suffered a great loss!According to Kemi Filani, Pastor Adeboye has lost his eldest sister, Esther Adetoun, who was aged 83.

Pastor Adeboye and his sister were said to be so close before the death. She passed away on the 11th of February, due to old age and was buried on the 13th and 14th of February in Ifewara, Osun state – a village that the now Osun state governor had promised to give a local government council but till now didn’t keep his word.
Here are photos from the burial:

Meanwhile, just recently, a group called Youth Ballot Evolution had an online poll between President Goodluck Jonathan and Gen. Buhari. The poll result showed that Jonathan won. This got a great reaction from people especially when Pastor Adeboye’s first son re-shared the poll results.

Troops Uncover Heaps Of Arms Abandoned By Fleeing Boko Haram Members In Baga – DHQ

Nigerian troops carrying out cordon and search operations in Baga community of Borno State have continued to discover more arms of various background and shapes abandoned in some houses and surrounding communities by fleeing terrorists, the Defence Headquarters has said.

The Director of Defence Information, Major General Chris Olukolade, said heaps of weapons, most of which were strange looking or destroyed, were still being gathered.
Many abandoned or destroyed motorcycles have also been discovered, the defense spokesman added.
He, however, said a soldier was stabbed while another was shot during a close range battle, which ensued as troops involved in cordon and search caught up with some of the fleeing terrorists Saturday evening.
Mr. Olukolade added, “A number of individuals who claimed to be residents are also being interrogated in order to ascertain their identity and motive. The group consisting mostly women continued to hail and cheer the troops as they conduct thorough search in the area.
“Wanting to be sure the group was not working for the terrorists despite the excitement, they had to be placed under watch.
“The cordon and search as well as patrol of the localities continue while the offensive on terrorists is progressing in other areas of the theatre of the counter terrorist campaign”.
It would be recalled that Nigerian troops had on Saturday reclaimed Baga and other surrounding communities after days of fierce battle against the insurgents.

Ray J Reacts To Amber Rose’s Thrashing Of Kim K.

Kanye West and Amber Rose collectively put the Internet on its a*s yesterday, February 20, and they haven’t been together for years. After Kanye West revealed that his wife Kim Kardashian made him take “30 showers” to remove the Amber Rose funk,..
Wiz Khalifa’s estranged spouse struck back with full force, reminding the world that Ray J originally coated the reality star’s lips with that biological Chapstick. After being caught in the middle and seeing his name trend on Twitter for reasons outside of Love & Hip-Hop, the R&B singer had no choice but to respond.
A video posted by rayj (@rayj) on Feb 20, 2015 at 2:25pm PST
The clip is one of the most notable line from The Godfather Part III where Al Pacino’s character, Michael Corleone expressed his anguish for being reverted back to criminalistic tactics.
A humorous reaction but Ray J did attempt to revitalize his music career where he highlighted his past trysts with Kardashian on a number called “I Hit It First.”
Nice try at playing the victim, though.

Chelsea to Appeal Matic’s Red Card against Burnley

Chelsea will lodge an appeal to the Football Association against the red card shown to midfielder Nemanja Vidic in Saturday’s 1-1 draw with Burnley.

Matic received a straight red for lashing out at Ashley Barnes after a woeful tackle in the 69th minute.
The Premier League leaders have until 13:00GMT on Tuesday to submit their evidence to the Football Association.

Chelsea to Appeal Nemanja Matic’s Red Card against Burnley. Image: Getty.

An independent three-man disciplinary commission will review the incident before the Blues’ League Cup final against Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday. Meanwhile, the Chelsea board are understood to be comfortable and throwing weight behind manager Jose Mourinho’s comment about Barnes and referees on Sky programme ‘Goals’ on Sunday (yesterday).
The Portuguese claimed the challenge by the Burnley striker was “criminal” and could have ended the Serb’s career, while also suggesting “Chelsea could be 12 points clear” of Manchester City had decisions gone their way.
“Football is about emotions and clearly Nemanja Matic had a reason to lose his emotions,” Mourinho defended the 26-year-old for pushing Barnes to the ground.
“What are the consequences of his push? Nothing. The consequence for Matic from the tackle? It could be the end of his career.
“If you call Diego Costa’s actions against Liverpool a crime, the minimum you have to say is this is a criminal tackle.”
On perceived injustice against his side, Mourinho said: “I am not attacking the honesty, the dignity of anyone. I am not trying to- and in this country you love this sentence- ‘bring the game into disrepute.’ I am trying to be honest.
“If we are in a normal situation when decision sometimes go for us, sometimes go against us, we could be five points clear, we could be 12. It could be 12 points.”
Reports had suggested the wide-ranging interview with Sky Sports was conducted at the 52-year-old’s request, but the club insists the he was invited on the programme after a long-standing request was granted on Saturday evening.

Cristiano Ronaldo Campaigns For GEJ?

Christiano Ronaldo in a picture handles a placard and on it written “Vote GEJ For 2015″

The Portuguese star campaigns for the president of the federal Republic of Nigeria, president Goodluck Ebele Jonathan. The picture is causing controversies on social media as some say the picture is a Photoshop image, others agree that Ronaldo can campaign for Nigerians incumbent president.

It will be recalled that Cristiano Ronaldo is promoting his own fashion line in brand new images for the Spring/Summer 2015 collection.
The fit footballer, who has recently ended his long-term relationship with Russian beauty Irina Shayk, looks so hot it seems he wants say, “Hey, girl, now you see what you lost?”  And believe us, there are things to look at – oiled rock-hard six-pack abs, toned shoulders and athletic thighs.

CAN Denies Threatening Borno Christians For Supporting Buhari

The Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, Borno chapter, has denied claims that it threatened to sanction its members who declare support for the All Progressive Congress presidential candidate, Muhammadu Buhari.

Rev. Titus Pona, Chairman of the chapter, made the denial in a statement issued on Sunday in Maiduguri.
The statement was in reaction to some media reports which accused the Borno CAN chapter of issuing the threat to Christians in the state.
Rev. Pona described the allegation as, “baseless, fictitious and unfounded”.
He also denied that N7 billion bribe was issued to CAN by President Goodluck Jonathan to support his re-election.
“The attention of the Borno Chapter of CAN has been drawn to publication alleging that President Jonathan bribed pastors in the nation with the sum of N7 billion.
“And that the money was channelled through the national CAN’s office, for pastors to help campaign for his re-election in the next month’s polls”, Rev. Pona said.
“Ordinarily, we would have ignored such wild allegation but for the specific mention of Borno state in the write-up.
“Such allegation can easily mislead well-meaning persons and perhaps vulnerable members of the public.
“As a body, CAN is non-partisan and we encourage everyone to belong to a party of his or her choice since we have Christians in all parties”, he added.

Confusion as wife kills husband on Valentine’s Day

The couple’s rented apartment.
| credits: Emeka Obi

Residents of Adefowope Street, off Beach Road, Etegbin, in the Otto Awori Local Council Development Area of Lagos are divided over the reasons that could have made a woman to push her husband from the balcony of a one-storey building on Valentine’s Day.

It was gathered that the incident, which happened in the community, had left neighbours and residents at loss over what might have actually transpired.

It was learnt that the woman, identified as Onyinyechi, in anger pushed her husband, George, from the storey building, leading to the husband’s death.

While some residents claimed that Onyinyechi, who was a teacher in a private school in the area, was angry that her husband did not give her a Valentine’s treat on a day when most lovers made out time to celebrate each other, other residents said the couple was quarrelling over a monetary issue before the incident.

A man, who claimed to be a close friend of the deceased, however, insisted that the cause of the couple’s misunderstanding bordered on plans for Valentine’s Day.

Speaking on the condition of anonymity, he said, “George returned home in the evening of Valentine’s Day, a time the wife felt was already too late to go for an outing. She got angry and it resulted in a fight.”

Another source, who also claimed to have a close relationship with the family, however, said the cause of the fight was monetary issue.

He said, “A family friend had given George money to give to his wife as gift for their newborn baby. George did not only keep the money to himself, he also did not tell his wife about it. Onyinyechi later met the man, who asked her if she got the gift he sent through her husband. She was not only surprised, but furious that George could keep such a thing from her. It was in the process of asking him about it on the evening of Valentine’s Day that the fight started.”

A neighbour, who also spoke to our correspondent on the condition of anonymity, explained that the incident happened around 4pm on Valentine’s Day.

She said, “On Saturday, at about 4pm, my daughter rushed inside my apartment where I was sleeping to wake me up that Iyawo (Onyinyechi) and her husband were fighting upstairs.

“As she was still explaining to me, I heard a sound of something falling. I rushed out only to discover that it was my neighbour, George. I started screaming for help and other neighbours rushed in to assist me. We got a tricycle and rushed him to a hospital.

“The wife, however, remained upstairs in her apartment. She didn’t bother to come down to assist us, despite the fact that her seven-month-old daughter was downstairs playing with my children. George was certified dead at the hospital and we couldn’t take him to the mortuary without his family’s consent, so, we brought him back home and called his family members.”

Another neighbour, who identified herself as Mama Ifeoma, who was part of the people that took George to the hospital, said the doctor discovered a cut in his head.

She said the doctor explained that the injury could be as a result of an object that must have been used to hit him on the head.

She said, “The doctor told us that George must have been dead before he was pushed down from the balcony.”

When our correspondent sought Onyinyechi’s comment on the issue, it was discovered that she had traveled to her home town in Nnewi, Anambra State with her daughter.

The Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Kenneth Nwosu, has yet to respond to enquiries on the incident as of the time of this report.

Gunmen kill C’River governor’s steward

Sebastian
| credits: Mudiaga Affe

The personal steward of the Cross River State Governor, Liyel Imoke, has been reportedly killed in Calabar.

The steward, who was identified as Sebastian, was said to have been killed in his residence by some yet-to-be identified, shortly after departing from the governor’s house on Friday.

A source, who pleaded anonymity, said the steward, who hailed from the Obanliku Local Government Area of the state, had followed his boss round the state on political campaigns, but was killed shortly after returning home.

He said, “Sebastian was killed on Friday in his Eight Mile residence. He was loved by the governor and his family. He had five-year-old twins and a new baby. The news came to us as a shock.”

When contacted, the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr. Christian Ita, declined comment on the death of Sebastian, but said the growing insecurity might not be unconnected to politics.

In a related development, security details attached to the Peoples Democratic Party candidate for the Cross River South Senatorial District, Mr. Gershom Bassey, was on Saturday hit by bullets fired by hoodlums at the politician’s residence in Calabar.

The attack on Bassey’s residence came barely 48 hours after his campaign team was attacked in Bakassi by suspected thugs from an opposition party.

According to eyewitnesses, the gunmen were said to be four in number and drove to the politician’s residence in an Audi car, disarmed and shot a mobile policeman who was on duty.

It was further gathered that a personnel of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps that was on duty at the residence was shot in the buttocks.

One of the witnesses said, “Four young men drove in an Audi car to Gershom Bassey’s gate and asked for him. When they found out that he was not around, they came out of their car and opened fire. The NSCDC man and a riot policeman were shot.

“The NSCDC man was shot in the buttocks, while the policemen were shot in the legs. Neither Bassey nor his wife was home when the gunmen came.”

It was learnt that the gunmen made away with the policeman’s rifle.

The state Police Public Relations Officer, Mr. Hogan Bassey, confirmed the incident, saying the matter was currently being investigated.

“Some hoodlums went there, but they were repelled. However, some security personnel sustained injury and we are investigating the matter,” he said.

Indian dies in Lagos after attack by robbers

Eleko area
| credits: Olaleye Aluko

An Indian national, Mr. Srivastava Kumar, has died in a hospital after he was attacked by suspected robbers in the Lekki Ajah area of Lagos.

PUNCH Metro learnt that 45-year-old Kumar was attacked while working on an agricultural farm in Eleko, Ajah, on the Lekki-Epe Expressway.

Our correspondent learnt that Kumar was stabbed in the hand and the chest during the robbery, which occurred on Wednesday, February 11.

It was gathered that the Indian, who was also the plant manager of a foods processing company, was rushed to the St. Nicholas Hospital on the Lagos Island after the robbers’ attack.

Kumar, however, reportedly died at the hospital on the morning of February 14. Our correspondent learnt that the matter was reported to the Akodo Police Division.

When our correspondent got to the private hospital, a worker, who begged to remain anonymous, said although the Indian underwent a surgery, he did not survive as a result of his injuries.

He said, “The Indian was rushed to the hospital on Wednesday. We found out that he was stabbed in the hand and in the chest. His relatives were told that a surgery would be needed on his stomach.

“The doctors did the surgery on him, but he did not survive. He had lost so much blood during the attack. He died on the morning of that Sunday. His relatives had taken him away from the hospital.

“I know they have also reported the matter to the police and the attackers will be fished out.”

When PUNCH Metro visited the Eleko area, a resident, who identified himself as Suleiman Bosun, said armed robbers made use of bushes and lonely junctions in the area as hideouts to perpetrate their acts, urging the police to increase their surveillance.

He said, “We have several Asian companies in the Eleko area. In the evening times, when most junctions are lonely, motorists and passengers fall victims of robbery attacks.

“Yes, we heard that an Indian was attacked by armed robbers and he died in the hospital. When will this barbarism stop in our area?”

The Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Kenneth Nwosu, confirmed the incident. He added that the matter had been transferred to the state Special Anti-Robbery Squad for further investigation.

He said, “The security man that was with the deceased, who ran away on the day the Indian died, is the prime suspect.

“The police arrested one of the security men who were on duty in the company on the day of the incident. He was arrested in Argungu, Kebbi State.

“His name cannot be disclosed as we are trying to apprehend others. Investigation continues at SARS and efforts are ongoing to arrest other suspects.”

Terry G – “Thank You Lord”

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Just as the titles implies ” Thank You Lord” Terry G uses this song to give thanks to God for all what he has done in his life. I belief we have a lot to be thankful of. Listen to this song and be uplifted. Download and enjoy.


DOWNLOAD: Terry G – Thank You Lord

African China – “Amen”

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After a long time break of silence, he came out with two new singles in 2014 title: ANU GBOKO and GHEN GHEN……he said his set to drop his new album this year 2015.
African China who has being known for social issues affecting the country, here is another new single base on the current political matter on ground African China has decided to speak on behalf of the Masses.
This one called it AMEN…..with a dance hall Rhythm.


DOWNLOAD African China – “Amen”

Tiwa Savage & Waje Make Channel O’s Africa’s Top 10 Female Singing Sensations

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Channel Just released Top 10 Female singing sensations in Africa and guess what? We dont agree with the list , no offence to the femcees from other countries on the list but Nigerian female artists on this list should be more than 2 , where is OMAWUMI , CHIDINMA ? .
Well i guess they forgot!! Share your thoughts on this .
Channel O press List Below

This is by no means an official list, just some divas that we have tracked on our radar. In no particular, here are Africa’s top female singing sensations:

Zonke Dikana

Given her very musical background, there was probably no other career that South African songstress Zonke Dikana could have chosen. Her first album “Life,love and music” was released in 2007 but it wasn’t until 2011, when she dropped “Ina ethe” that she gained the recognition due to her. It scooped her a SAMA for Best African adult album. Her follow up project, “Give and take”, saw her take home another SAMA for best live DVD.

Lira
With four albums under her belt, 10 SAMA awards, a BET nomination for best international act in Africa and a biography, Lerato Molapo needs no introduction in the music industry. She has continuously reinvented herself, ensuring her long lasting power.

Tiwa Savage
There is so much that can be said about Tiwatope Savage, who has been singing since the age of 17. Her musical career is so illustrious and includes various accolades including having a song that she co-wrote for Fantasia being nominated for a Grammy. She has also backed up musical giants such as Mary J Blidge and George Michael and last year won her fisrt CHOAMVA for most gifted female.

Moneoa
Moneoa Moshesh burst on to the music scene in mid-2012 to positive reviews. Her debut album “Coming from going to” was nominated for the Channel O Music and Metro FM Music awards, although she did not win. Her latest album, “Ndim Lo”, has scored two Metro FM Music Awards nominations this year.

Lady Jay Wah
She has been described as the Ghanaian It Girl when she burst onto the scene into the scene in 2012. Signed to Pidgen music, her sound combines Neo soul, Afrobeat, Reggae and Pop. She is seen as one of Ghana’s fastest rising stars.

Victoria Kimani
Victoria Kimani, born in LA but originally from Kenya started writing, recording and performing at 16. She lived in Nigeria durig her high school years but moved back to Nairobi, Kenya at 17. She has since been working with top artists and producers, perfecting and developing her musical and visual craft as well as writing for all sorts of signed artists around the world.

Waje
WAJE (an acronym for “Words aren’t just enough”) is a Nigerian singer whose vocal range is famous for its versatility. Born Aituaje Iruobe, she is the lady behind the remake of P-Square’s Omoge Mi and the female voice in the duo’s 2008 hit track do me.

Efya
Her full name is, wait for it: Jane Fara Fauzzier Afia Boafowaa Yahaya Awindor. She is a Ghanaian neo-soul vocalist, songwriter, performer and actress from Kumasi.

Zahara
Loliwe is South African singing sensation’s first album and it broke records by going platinum in 13 days and double platinum after just 17 days, selling over 100,000 copies in South Africa. The music video for her debut single, “Loliwe”, has eclipsed the 2.3 million views mark on YouTube. Her second studio album “Phendula” also went platinum in 7 days after being released.

Naima Kay
Naima Kay, born Lungile Khumalo is a 2014 SAMA Best Newcomer award winner. She describes her 12-track debut album “Umsebenzi” as being about love, life and things that happen around us.

Eddy Kenzo – “Royal” ft. Patoranking

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Fabulous collaboration from Eddy Kenzo featuring Nigerian dance hall/reggae act Patoranking in “Royal“. Download and share your thoughts.


DOWNLOAD: Eddy Kenzo – Royal ft. Patoranking

VIDEO: Ajebutter 22 – “Church Mind”

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One year after the release of his successful album “Anytime Soon” Ajebutter 22 decides to mark the anniversary with a visual to one of his track in the album “Church Mind” which is his fans favourite. The video has cameo appearances from Taymi B to David Evans. Download and share your thoughts.

DOWNLOAD VIDEO: Ajebutter 22 – Church Mind

Wale Records New Single With Don Jazzy and Reekado Banks

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Wale  hinted earlier about a possible single featuring Don Jazzy and Reekado Banks , well guess what its DONE!! Wale tweeted about the record some hours ago and praised Reekado banks for hook of the single.
This is indeed a movement forward for SMD boss Don Jazzy and Ofcourse “Reekado Banks” . Check out Wale’s Tweets below and am sure we cant wait to hear what the finally cut sounds like.

Yeah RT @DONJAZZY: ===.> ReekyFire ????“@Wale: @ReekadoBanks that hook is. Crazy . Oshey o . Perfect”
— Wale Folarin (@Wale) February 21, 2015

Chop am
— Wale Folarin (@Wale) February 22, 2015

Yeah RT @DONJAZZY: ===.> ReekyFire ????“@Wale: @ReekadoBanks that hook is. Crazy . Oshey o . Perfect”
— Wale Folarin (@Wale) February 21, 2015

Buhari’ll never be president –Fayose

Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose

The Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose, on Sunday boasted that the presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress, Maj. Gen. Muhammadu Buhari (retd.), “will never be Nigeria president again.”

The governor also challenged the former Head of State to swear by the Holy Quran that he did not visit the hospital in the United Kingdom last week.

Fayose, who spoke through his Special Assistant on Public Communications and New Media, Lere Olayinka, said, “I wish they can see spiritually what I am talking about that Buhari, despite the hullabaloo will never be president. I predicted my return as Ekiti State governor and I am saying it again that Buhari will never rule Nigeria again.

“After President Goodluck Jonathan, there will be a young element in his late 50s from the North that will be Nigerian president. I want to liken this revelation to the story of Elijah and Elisha. I am the Elijah while my followers are Elisha.”

He said he never wished Buhari dead.

He added, “I owe it a duty to Nigeria and its people to expose the antics of the APC cabal whose only interest is to seize power to further selfish interests.

“Without doubt, it is obvious that members of this cabal in the APC is trying so hard to deceive Nigerians on Buhari’s health status. That is the reason they have been using photoshop pictures to defend their lies on Buhari’s UK trip.

“First, they used a March 5, 2013 picture, claiming that Buhari was taking a walk in London on Thursday. Later they came up with another poorly cropped picture of Buhari with former British Prime Minister, Tony Blair.

“The same people who lied in September 2012 that they received a gold card invitation to attend the Democratic National Convention in the United States of America are behind the dressing of Buhari in the garment of lies and I challenge Buhari to swear by the Holy Quran that he did not visit hospital in the United Kingdom last week.”

But, a group in the Ekiti State has described Fayose as a “political stalker” whose actions should be viewed as a threat to the life of Buhari.

In a statement by its spokesperson, Mr. Segun Dipe, the Action Group operating within the APC in Ekiti, asked Fayose to tender an unreserved apology for having the general on his death-wish list.

Dipe said, “Everyone should put Fayose on notice how his words and deeds have been threatening the life of General Buhari.

“The indecorous governor is bent on seeing the APC presidential candidate dead before the March 28 presidential election because his party is sure of losing the election, and he feels he will stew for it.

“That a Fayose could be hounding Buhari with death threat is quite unwarranted and unfortunate. He has sent spies after our presidential candidate and may soon start toying with the idea of snipers, that is, if he has not already.

“That Fayose is fraudulent, corrupt, inept, indecorous and uncouth is not in doubt. That he is unambiguous in his wish for Buhari’s death is not in doubt either. What is worrisome to us is why the twice-lucky governor should be trailing the General even beyond the shores of Nigeria, to ensure that his wish against him comes to pass.”

Dipe hinted that his group was aware that Fayose in his alleged desperation to see Buhari dead had travelled to UK just about the same time that Buhari travelled and had been trailing the movement of the General abroad.

He said, “He wants to hold on to power by all means possible and he knows that an integrity-driven person like Buhari as president would clip his wings.

“Our group is calling on all well-meaning persons in Nigeria and across the globe to call Fayose to order as his actions and words amount to not only wishing Buhari dead but driving the General to his death. God forbid.

“The group also calls on all sons and daughters of Ekiti who are desirous of rejecting the toga of indecorous and gluttony, which Fayose has brought on them, to come out enmasse and vote General Buhari in as president come March 28, as well as the candidates presented by APC for all the other political positions at the polls.

“A vote for APC is a vote against Fayose’s indecorous ways and PDP’s clueless impunity.”

Obanikoro can’t be minister, has dual citizenship – Group

Senator Musiliu Obanikoro

A civil society group, All Nigeria Save Democracy Movement, has kicked against the ministerial nomination of former Peoples Democratic Party Lagos State governorship aspirant, Senator Musliu Obanikoro, by President Goodluck Jonathan.

The group, in a petition to the Senate President, David Mark, through Senators Gbenga Ashafa and Obafemi Ojudu, listed several reasons Obanikoro was not qualified to become a minister, a statement said on Sunday.

According to the group, Obanikoro is of dual citizenship–USA and Nigeria – and going by the provisions of the constitution, he should be disqualified for the post.

It said, “Section 147 (5) of the Constitution, as amended, provides that no person shall be appointed as a minister of the government of the federation unless he is qualified for election as a member of the House of Representatives.

“Section 66 (1) (a) of the Constitution also states that no person shall be qualified for election to the Senate or the House of Representatives if – subject to the provisions of Section 28 of the Constitution, he has voluntarily acquired the citizenship to a country other than Nigeria or, except in such cases as may be prescribed by the National Assembly, has made a declaration of allegiance to such a country.

“These provisions are so clear as to remove any ambiguity as to the spirit and letter of their constitutional/legal implications. By these provisions alone, Musiliu Obanikoro was not even qualified in the first instance to run for the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, but managed to manipulate the system to get himself elected into the Senate in 1999, which in itself was fraudulent and criminal. As a matter of fact, his title of senator should be nullified having obtained same fraudulently.”

Obanikoro had on October 15, 2014 resigned his ministerial appointment from the present administration in a bid to contest the governorship primary of the PDP in Lagos, which he lost to his rival, Jimi Agbaje.

After the loss, he was nominated the second time by the President for another ministerial position.

Ancelotti: I was surprised to see Barcelona lose

Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti has admitted that he was shocked by Barcelona's 1-0 loss at home to Malaga but still expects the Liga title race to continue until the last day of the season.
The Catalans had been on an 11-game winning streak in all competitions before succumbing to an early goal from Juanmi at Camp Nou on Saturday.
Madrid then triumphed 2-0 at Elche 24 hours later - courtesy of goals from Karim Benzema and Cristiano Ronaldo - to pull four points clear of Barca, much to the delight of Ancelotti.
"It was an important game after what happened to our rivals on Saturday and above all to take a bigger lead over Barcelona," the Italian told reporters.
"It is clear that their defeat surprised everyone, as Barca had been in very good form, playing very well.
"We do have a lead now, but as I have said many times this title will be decided on the last day of the season."
Madrid were rocked by a 4-0 derby defeat at Atletico on February 7 but have since responded with three consecutive 2-0 wins in all competetions.
Ancelott was thus particularly pleased to see his players keep their clean sheet record going at Elche, in what was his 100th game in charge of the club.
"These 100 games with Real Madrid have gone well," the former Chelsea boss added.
"But I hope to improve in the next 100 and with the attitude of this game we will win many more. We have been focused and everyone has worked very well.
"After Atletico we have improved on our defensive work. Elche's players have got great quality, but we have not allowed them to prove it. I had no doubts that we would win this game."

Feeding Programme To Start In Almajiri Schools – FG

The Minister of National Planning, Dr Abubakar Sulaiman, yesterday, disclosed that the government had put plans in place to introduce school feeding programme for Almajiri Integrated Schools if re-elected.
Suleiman announced this during a strategic stakeholders roundtable on the milestone achievements on the Almajiri Integrated Schools programme organised by the National Planning Commission (NPC) weekend.
The roundtable was aimed at assessing the key milestone achievements of the programme and also deliberate on the next steps to advance the programme in line with the Transformation Agenda of President Goodluck Jonathan.
“In the next four years, going forward, the successor Transformation Agenda will introduce school feeding programme for the Almajiri Integerated Schools,” Suleiman said.
According to him, the project would support government action towards achieving relevant aspects of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). He also explained that the overall goal of the programme was to reduce hunger and malnutrition among children in the Almajiri schools. He said it was also designed to strengthen the achievements of Universal Basic Education in addressing the gaps in basic education in disadvantaged states and encapsulating the Almajiri Integrated System into the mainstream of the National Educational Policy in the country.
“Every pupil in the school is expected to be fed with a quality and adequate ration comprising of three square meals and snacks/fruits each school day and weekends. It is pertinent to note that incorporation of agricultural programme and vocational components should be given critical attention,” Suleiman said.

No Going Back On Privatization Of Electricity Projects – Jonathan

President Goodluck Jonathan, weekend, said there was no going back on privatization of electricity projects in the country, as his administration was determined to give stable power supply to Nigerians.
Speaking at the commissioning of Unit ST-6, at Egbin Power Plant, Ikorodu, Lagos, Jonathan also noted that reliable power sector facilitates socio-economic development of any nation.
“Small and medium enterprises cannot thrive if owners of such businesses are left to generate their own electricity. Egbin power facility presents a vision of our drive to give stable power supply to Nigerians. We are committed to irreversibly taking power sector to the expected height where every Nigerian will be proud of it,” he said.
The President enjoined host communities of Egbin plant to partner with the company in ensuring security of the facilities and the employment of the youths.
Also speaking, Minister of Power, Professor Chinedu Nebo, said since privatization, the power sector had received a new baton to provide Nigeria with stable electricity.
“Privatization has changed the sector for good. For example, at Kainji Station, only one unit was said to be working upon takeover at 80 MW. However, presently, it has 150 MW, with additional 80 MW expected in the next two weeks to bring it to 230 MW,” he said.

No One Has Fought Corruption In Nigeria Like Jonathan – Agbaje

Lagos State governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Jimi Agbaje says President Goodluck Jonathan is a transparent man, who has been fighting corruption since the beginning of his administration, contrary to the propaganda of the opposition.
Agbaje said this, weekend, at the launch of a book titled Showcasing Goodluck Ebele Jonathan’s Monumental Stride: A Third Party Perspective, written by Citizens Network for Peace and Development.
“They said Jonathan is corrupt. Have they ever fought anybody for corruption in Lagos since 1999 to date? With all the allegations of embezzlement in Lagos the have not probed anyone in Lagos and they want to fight corruption in Abuja when they hope to get there?,” Agbaje queried.
“Transparency International did a report recently and said the administration of President Jonathan has fought corruption the most. Don’t let them shut us down or be afraid to speak the truth. There is no programme that the APC presidential candidate, Gen. Buhari, has that Jonathan cannot double.
“It is very funny when they use all forms of propaganda to win election by all means,” the governorship hopeful said.

Celebrity Interview: Chris Brown Says He’s Tired Of Giving Drake Free Publicity While Tyga Talks Abouts About Teenage Girlfriend, Kylie Jenner

American sensational singer, Chris Brown and rapper, Tyga are birds of the same feather.
The two youngsters that are like bread and tea together have collaborated to talk on matters relating to Drake.
Chris Brown and Tyga were interviewed by Hot 97, the two celebs talked about Drake, Kylie Jenner and more.
Chris Brown explained how he’s tired of talking of Drake and giving him free publicity.
Breezy said “We’re not getting no check from talking about dude. We’re giving him all this pub. We’re us. I can’t keep making these motherf**kers famous. I’m responsible for reviving a lot of careers.”
During the interview, Tyga talked a little on Drake and more about his rumored girlfriend, Kylie Jenner.
Tyga said “I do it for myself. I speak what I feel in my heart, and if I wanna express that, I’m gonna express that at that time. If I wanna express it later in life, I’m gonna do it later. I just feel like it’s nobody’s business.”

Nollywood Veteran Couple, Olu Jacobs And Joke Silva Make Cover Of New Issue Of Hello Nigeria Magazine

It’s safe to say that they are the Nollywood couple every other one looks up to.
They’ve been together for over a decade and they seem to have the marriage game perfected. We never even hear of their squabbles and everything seems so peaceful and right with them.
The veteran Nollywood legends made the cover the latest issue of the Hello magazine.
The couple revealed details about their long lasting love, and how they built their relationship in the limelight.
“It had its challenges in the early years, each person fighting for their own space within it…… but over the years, we have learned to respect the other person views” said Joke Silva.
See another picture below: –

Patoranking And Di’Ja Stun On Cover Of New Issue Of Gaurdian’s Life Magazine

Wizkid and Davido are now daddies in the entertainment industry in Nigeria and henceforth, can’t be regarded as young anymore.
However, two very young and fast rising singers taking the music scene by force are Dija and Patoranking.
The fast rising Mavin sensation Aphro-di’ja now partners with Patoranking for Guardian Life’s Music Edition magazine cover.
See more pictures below: –

Zahra Buhari Hooks Up With Dele Momodu In London

I hope you haven’t all forgotten about Zahra Buhari so soon. She’s the daughter of APC presidential candidate; and she got a lot of media attention when she surfaced on Twitter to show support for her father’s campaign.
The beautiful Zahra has appeared again and not on Twitter this time.
Zahra Buhari was spotted at Piccadilly square in London with the Ovation Boss, Dele Momodu.
Dele Momodu is a well known supporter of Buhari to emerge as the president of Nigeria.

See Photos From Rihanna’s Surprise 27th Birthday Party

Controversial American Pop singer, Rihanna turned a year older and celebrated as usual with a party.
Unlike the last one, Chris Brown was no where to be found as he’s definitely getting on well with Karreuche Tran; for now.
The 27 year old singer celebrated her birthday with a surprise birthday bash from her friends.
As you can see from photos, Beyonce and Paris Hilton were present.
See more photos below: –

Ice Prince’s Girlfriend Shows Big b**bs uhhmmm!!!!

Ice Prince is definitely enjoying his new romance as he can’t stop gushing about her and sharing pictures on social media.
The talented Nigerian rapper who’s currently dating a Ghanaian half-cast called — Maima shared a new photo of himself and his boo.
Maima has a kid already and so does Ice Prince.
Perfect couple right?!?

Checkout Epic Throwback Photo Of Phyno And Runtown Together

I bet most of you didn’t know these two knew each other from way way back.
Fast rising singer, Runtown just shared an epic throwback photo of himself and Phyno.
The photo shows Runtown and Phyno before they got endorsement deals and had the ladies all over them.
You can clearly see that Phyno hasn’t changed much, just the height. See his really skinny hands, LMAO!!!
He captioned the photo “it was all a dream”.

Boxing: Mayweather To Fight Pacquaio In May

American, Floyd ‘money’ Mayweather Jr, has announced that the eagerly anticipated boxing fight between him and Filipino, Manny ‘pac-man’ Pacquiao, is on in Las Vegas on 2 May.

Fans had waited tirelessly for confirmation of the welterweight showdown between two of the world’s best pound-for-pound fighters since initial negotiations collapsed in 2010 over Mayweather’s demand for random drug testing.
Speculations became rife on Thursday afternoon that the deal was done, with Floyd thrashing out the right to make the announcement, and it waited not longer than 30 hours to become official.

Mayhem: Mayweather defeated Maidana to Retain His (Super Welterweight) WBC Belt on September 14, 2014.

Floyd, 37, announced via a smartphone photo app he jointly funded, ‘Shots’: “What the world has been waiting for has arrived. Mayweather vs. Pacquaio on May 2, 2015, is a done deal.
“I promise the fans, we would get this done, and we did. We will make history on May 2nd. Don’t miss it.”
The message was accompanied by a picture of the document signed by both fighters, who are at the prime of their respective careers.
Showtime and HBO will jointly broadcast the bout, the biggest drawcards of the duo’s generation of boxers and the most talked about since the classic ‘Thrilla in Manila’ between Mohammad Ali and Joe Fraizer 39 years ago.
Mayweather was at Pacquaio’s hotel in Miami last month to discuss the possibility of the match having exchanged contacts at a basketball game earlier.
“I am glad my decision to meet with Manny and discuss making this fight happen helped get the deal done,” Mayweather, 47-0, 26KOS, said in a statement released after the announcement. “Giving the fans what they want to see is always my main focus.

Eight-Division Manny Pacquiao is Also Known as the Congressman Fighter as He is Currently a Serving Congressman in the Philippines.

“This will be the biggest event in the history of the sport. Boxing fans and sports fans around the world will witness greatness on May 2.
“I am the best eve, TBE, and this will be another opportunity to showcase my skills and do what I do best, which is win. Manny is going to try to do what 47 before him failed to do, but he won’t be successful. He will be number 48.”
Pacquaio, 57-5-2, 38KOs said in a statement: “I am very happy that Floyd Mayweather and I can give the fans the fight they have wanted for so many years. They have waited long enough and they deserve it.
“It is an honour to be part of this historic event. I dedicate this fight to all the fans who willed this fight to happen and as always, to bring glory to the Philippines and my fellow Filipinos around the world.”
The most lucrative card in Boxing
Mayweather is expected to have 60-40 split advantage on revenues generated from the match, with projected minimum earnings of $120m and Pacquaio $80m.
The fight is expected to generate almost two-time the estimated revenue from the most lucrative fight in history between Mayweather and Saul Alvarez ($149m) in 2013.
“Everyone involved, including Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquaio, knows this fight simply had to happen,” Stephen Espinoza- general manager for Showtime Sports, said in a statement.
“All of us are thrilled to be able to deliver this event to boxing fans around the world.”
The fight is also expected to take down the current record for pay-per-view buys in the United States. The 2.4 million households, who tuned in to watch Mayweather and countryman Oscar de la Hoya in their 2007 bout ($55 PPV in the US), is currently ranked most for a boxing match.
Eight-division world champion, Pacquaio, 36, suffered successive defeats by American Timothy Bradley (KO) and Mexican Juan Manuel Marquez (UD) in 2012, prompting pundits to suggest the beginning of a decline and possibly retirement for the aggressive Southpaw.

Manny Pacquaio Scored Six Knockdowns to Claim a Lopsided Victory via Unanimous Decision against Chris Algieri to Retain His WBO Welterweight Title in November, 2014.

He is hoping to defeat a fourth American in quick succession after rebounding with victories against Brandon Rios (2012), Timothy Bradley (2014) and Chris Algieri (2014), all by Unanimous Decisions.
His next opponent, a five-division world champion and a defensive fighter, Mayweather, has often questioned Pacquaio’s title wins in an unprecedented eight weight divisions and, even hints at illegal scoring methods.
However, Pacquaio will be defending his WBO Welterweight title, as well as taking a shot at Mayweather’s WBA, (Super) WBC titles and the Ring Welterweight title at the MGM Grand Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada, come May.

Checkout Epic Throwback Photo Of Phyno And Runtown Together

I bet most of you didn’t know these two knew each other from way way back.
Fast rising singer, Runtown just shared an epic throwback photo of himself and Phyno.
The photo shows Runtown and Phyno before they got endorsement deals and had the ladies all over them.
You can clearly see that Phyno hasn’t changed much, just the height. See his really skinny hands, LMAO!!!
He captioned the photo “it was all a dream”.

The Kardashians And Baby North West Involved In Motor Accident!!!

I bet Amber Rose would be somewhere cackling about this report. On the other hand, baby North West has experienced her first NYFW and now her first car crash; poor baby.
Three of the Kardashians — Khloe, Kim, Kylie Jenner and baby North West were involved in a car accident on Saturday in Montana, TMZ reports.
Khloe was reportedly driving when snow kicked up from a passing truck made her unable to see. The car then hit ice and crossed into oncoming traffic before landing in a ditch. Law enforcement showed up, but everyone was fine.
The news comes just two weeks to the day after Bruce Jenner was involved in a fatal car crash that killed one woman .

Toyin Aimakhu Fires Back At Stella Damasus

I guess this reply makes it official — It’s war between Stella Damasus and Toyin Aimakhu.
The two are apparently not done with the beef I reported yesterday as Toyin Aimakhu has now replied Stella Damasus’s attack.
Stella Damasus took a lengthy 8 months to get back at Toyin when we all thought there would be no reply.
However, Toyin is back for Stella as the Yoruba actress took to Instagram to blast her senior colleague.
She shared a photo and captioned it with these words.
A few grammatical blunders but I guess you get the point.
See photo and caption below: –

Tonto Dikeh Caught Sitting On The Legs Of Her ‘Sugar Daddy’ [Photo]

Don’t get it twisted, this isn’t Tonto Dikeh’s ‘Mr X’ that she always talks about…………….or is he???
Anwyays, the controversial actress and singer, Tonto Dikeh took to her Instagram page to share a photo of herself and her stylist, Jeremiah Ogbodo of Swanky Signature.
She refers to him as her ‘Sugar Daddy’.