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Chidimma Adetshina has been crowned Miss Universe Nigeria 2024.

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Chidimma Adetshina has been crowned Miss Universe Nigeria 2024.

Born and raised in South Africa to a Nigerian father and a Mozambican mother, Chidimma was a contender in the recently concluded Miss SA pageant until her withdrawal following weeks of turmoil over her nationality.

 

The 23-year-old accepted the invitation from the organisers to join the Miss Universe Nigeria competition after stepping down from Miss SA and went on to win the crown on Saturday night.

 

“This crown is not just for beauty; it’s a call for unity,” she said.

 

She will represent Nigeria at the Miss Universe contest in November.

 

(📷 Miss Universe Nigeria)

Filmhouse Group Hosts Networking Dinner In Collaboration with The Nigerian International Film & TV Summit

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Filmhouse Group, a leading player in the Nigerian film industry hosted an exclusive networking dinner on Thursday 29th August in the heart of Lekki at the Filmhouse Cinemas – Rooftop Terrace. The event celebrated Ghana being named the country of honour at this year’s Nigerian International Film & TV Summit.

This event had in attendance industry professionals, creative minds and key stakeholders for an evening of insightful discussions and networking. The gathering which was set against a vibrant Ghana theme featured guests dressed to impress in their Ghanian style and colours. The event provided a unique opportunity for guests to engage in meaningful conversations about the future of the film & television industry while enjoying delicious Ghanaian food and refreshing drinks.

Ms Ijeoma Onah, Founder, Nigerian International Film & TV Summit exclaimed “Our summit is dedicated to celebrating and advancing the film and television industries in Nigeria and beyond. This year, we are thrilled to honor Ghana as our country of honour, recognizing its profound cultural contributions. Our partnership with Filmhouse Group exemplifies our shared commitment to fostering a vibrant and inclusive film community, showcasing the strength of African cinema and collaborative spirit that drives our industry forward.”

Ms Mojisola Oladapo, Chief Marketing Officer, Filmhouse Group exclaimed “We are thrilled to celebrate our collaboration with the Nigerian International Film & TV Summit. This partnership is a significant alignment with our vision and values, representing a pivotal moment for Filmhouse Group as we continue to drive innovation and excellence in the film industry. We are excited about the potential this collaboration holds and the positive impact it will have on our shared goals.”

The Nigerian International Film & TV Summit is renowned for addressing critical issues and opportunities within the film industry, with a focus on Hollywood distribution dynamics and enhancing Nollywood’s international presence. This partnership underscores Filmhouse Group’s commitment to advancing the industry and expanding its global reach.

Mr. Kene Okwuosa – CEO Filmhouse Group (Filmhouse Cinemas, FilmOne Entertainment, FilmOne Studios), spoke on the importance of the event – The Nigerian International Film & TV Summit is an event that discusses the opportunities and challenges that we face in the film business in relation to Hollywood distribution and the Nollywood appeal for international distribution. This partnership resonates deeply with us as it is in line with the work we do as Filmhouse Group.

The event was a resounding success, with guests actively engaging in discussions about the Nigerian film landscape. The evening provided a valuable platform for exploring collaborative efforts needed to advance the industry. It fostered meaningful exchanges of ideas and identified new opportunities for growth and development.

 

As Filmhouse Group and the Nigerian International Film & TV Summit move forward with their partnership, both organizations are committed to leveraging their combined strengths to drive innovation and achieve significant milestones in the film industry. The collaboration marks a new chapter in their ongoing efforts to support and elevate the industry.

About Filmhouse Group

Filmhouse Group is a premier entertainment company that excels in cinema operations and film distribution. The group encompasses Filmhouse Cinemas, known for delivering high-quality movie experiences with advanced technology, comfortable seating, and a diverse film lineup including blockbusters, local, and international films. Additionally, FilmOne Limited, a subsidiary of Filmhouse Group, focused on the distribution and production of Filmed Content, from Nigeria, West Africa, to the World. We distribute and produce a wide range of mainstream and commercial pictures, including international and indigenous films, and maintain strategic alliances and relationships with international studios and distributors. The FilmOne team comprises of West Africa’s most recognized movie professionals in film distribution, production, marketing, general consulting and currently, the exclusive theatrical licensees to The Walt Disney Company, Warner Brothers Discovery, Sony Pictures Entertainment and Empire Entertainment in Anglophone West Africa. We also maintain strategic alliances and relationship with enabling us to distribute a wide range of local and international mainstream, commercial and/or niche content worldwide.

Together, Filmhouse Group and FilmOne Limited are dedicated to enhancing the movie-going experience, engaging with communities, and setting new standards in the entertainment industry.

About Nigerian International Film & TV Summit

The Nigerian International Film & TV Summit is a premier event that explores the opportunities and challenges within the film industry, with a particular emphasis on international distribution and the global appeal of Nollywood. The summit serves as a platform for industry professionals to share insights and drive forward the growth of the film and television sector.

 

 

Why I stepped down as CEO of UBA — Tony Elumelu

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Why I stepped down as CEO of UBA — Tony Elumelu

Tony Elumelu, the chairman of Heirs Holdings Group, has revealed that the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) policy, which limits the tenure of bank CEOs to ten years, was a key factor in his decision to step down as CEO of the United Bank for Africa (UBA).

 

Speaking at the 14th-anniversary celebration of Heirs Holdings in Lagos, Elumelu shared how this regulatory shift sparked a transformative journey that led to the establishment and growth of Heirs Holdings, now a global conglomerate with investments in diverse sectors across 24 countries.

 

Elumelu recounted how, in 2010, he was compelled to step down as CEO of the United Bank for Africa (UBA) due to a Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) policy that imposed a maximum tenure of 10 years for bank CEOs.

 

E-payment transactions surge: UBA ranked most visited banking website in Nigeria

“What could have been a setback became the beginning of something extraordinary – an opportunity that was truly transformative,” Elumelu remarked, emphasising that the policy shift, rather than dampening his ambitions, opened new doors for him. “When one door closes, many others open.”

 

This policy, which required him to relinquish his role at UBA, spurred the founding of Heirs Holdings, a conglomerate now operating in 24 countries and spanning sectors such as power, energy, financial services, hospitality, real estate, healthcare, and technology.

 

Reflecting on the group’s achievements, Elumelu noted, “Today marks a significant milestone, as we celebrate 14 years of excellence at Heirs Holdings Group.”

 

Elumelu used the occasion to share broader lessons on leadership and resilience. He urged aspiring entrepreneurs to view challenges as opportunities for growth.

 

“When faced with adversity, do not give up. When challenged, bounce back. Persevere, be resilient, and transform your fear into hope, your hope into ambition, and your ambition into action,” he advised.

 

Local energy firm acquires NNPC, TotalEnergies oil field for $19.5 million 

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Aradel Holdings Plc, an indigenous energy company, has entered a purchase agreement through its subsidiary, Aradel Energy Limited, to acquire a 100% interest in the Olo and Olo West marginal fields from TotalEnergies EP Nigeria and the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) for $19.5 million.

 

The company made this disclosure in a statement on its official website following the acquisition of the oil field.

 

The energy company said the acquisition was completed for a total consideration of $16 million, with an additional $3.5 million in deferred and conditional payments.

 

Aradel further stated that the Petroleum Mining Lease for Olo and the Petroleum Prospecting License for Olo West will be granted following the payment of the required ministerial consent fees and the successful completion of the approved field development plans within the specified timeframes.

 

“Aradel Holdings Plc (“Aradel Holdings” or “the Company”), through its subsidiary, Aradel Energy Limited, has signed a sale and purchase agreement to acquire the 100% interest in the Olo and Olo West Marginal Fields from TotalEnergies EP Nigeria and NNPC Limited (“the Acquisition”). The Olo and Olo West Fields were formerly part of OML 58.

 

“The Acquisition was completed for a consideration of US$16 million, plus US$3.5 million of deferred and conditional payments.

 

“The Petroleum Mining Lease (for Olo) and Petroleum Prospecting License (for Olo West) will be issued after the payment of relevant Ministerial Consent fees and completion of approved Field development plans within designated timeframes,” Aradel said.

 

What you should know

The Nigerian onshore oil industry has witnessed significant shifts recently, marked by the gradual exit of major international oil companies (IOCs), creating opportunities for local players to take the reins.

 

This trend demonstrates a broader transformation within the sector as global energy giants reassess their portfolios and strategic priorities.

 

This deal, valued at up to $2.4 billion, is particularly noteworthy as it transfers a substantial portion of Nigeria’s onshore oil production into the hands of a consortium dominated by local companies.

 

Other major players, such as ExxonMobil and Norway’s Equinor, have also divested significant assets in recent years. These IOCs are increasingly shifting their focus towards newer, more profitable ventures, often in regions that present fewer operational risks and higher returns.

 

As these global giants withdraw from Nigeria’s onshore oil industry, it has paved the way for indigenous companies to step up and assume greater control over the country’s valuable oil resources.

 

The increased involvement of local companies may lead to more direct economic benefits for the Nigerian economy, fostering greater national control over natural resources and possibly sparking new investments in the sector.

 

However, it also raises questions about the capacity of these local entities to manage and sustain operations at the scale previously handled by multinational corporations.

 

More Insights

Olo and Olo West marginal fields are located within former OML 58, in the Eastern Niger Delta, 80 kilometres northwest of Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

In addition, Aradel Holdings Plc (“Aradel Holdings” or “the Company”) is Nigeria’s foremost integrated independent energy company, delivering critical energy solutions in a sustainable and responsible way.

Aradel Holdings was incorporated on March 25, 1992 (as the Midas Drilling Fund), changed its name to Niger Delta Exploration and Production Plc in November 1996, and assumed its current name in May 2023.

Miss Universe Nigeria: South Africans back Miss Kwara, snub Chidimma Adetshina

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Ufa Dania, a contestant in the Miss Universe Nigeria pageant in faraway South Africa, is a fan favourite. Ms Dania, who represents Kwara State, has witnessed a vote surge as netizens in South Africa are voting en masse for her.

 

On X and Facebook, South Africans in their numbers could be seen rallying support for Ms Dania.

 

The 25-year-old is the first full-figured contestant in Miss Universe Nigeria’s history. Her appearance automatically makes her the object of attention, leading to debates and criticisms over her looks, particularly her eligibility to partake in a pageant where the participants are usually slim.

 

The 2024 Miss Universe Nigeria pageant is keenly contested for the first time, and the reason isn’t far-fetched. Chidimma Adetshina, an embattled contestant in the recently held Miss South Africa pageant, is one of the contestants.

 

She is a fan favourite in Nigeria and has been tipped to win the contest. However, the top 10 finalists will be determined by the viewers’ votes.

 

Dangote Refinery

This ironic support by South Africans has boosted visibility and votes for the plus-sized beauty queen. PREMIUM TIMES checks on the Miss Nigeria Universe voting website as of press time reveal that the top three contenders are Adetshina, Edeifo Aikhuele, and Ufa Dania.

 

Miss Kwara placed third having received over 9,945 votes. Ms Adetshina leads with 15,482 votes, followed by Aikhuele (Miss Edo) with 11,568 votes. The voting results percentage shows Adetshina at 18.00 per cent Aikhuele at 13.5 per cent, and Dania at 11.63 per cent

 

Since July, tensions between Nigeria and South Africa, fueled by online disputes like the “Bolt Order Challenge,” have added complexity to their love-hate relationship. South Africans have also criticised the Miss Universe Nigeria “substandard” venue over theirs, adding to the controversy.

 

 

Support twist

Many South Africans stated that their support on social media, rallying behind the 25-year-old contestant, is a response to the adverse treatment she received.

 

 

However, what began as a spiteful effort to provoke Nigerians has unexpectedly turned into a full-blown campaign for Miss Kwara.

 

The support for Ms Dania stemmed from a tweet by Nelly Weideman. She wrote, “Since we are all about changing stereotypes! Miss Kwara for Miss Universe Nigeria! We made history with our first-ever deaf Miss SA (Mia Le Roux); let’s make history for Nigeria, too. Let’s vote for Miss Kwara.”

 

Some critics have deemed the support hypocritical, arguing that Ms Dania’s support might be motivated by a desire to counterbalance Ms Adetshina’s participation.

 

Audience Survey

Ms Dania who is an Abuja-based content creator and stylist said that despite the initial criticism, she had grown a thick skin, viewing the pageant as a platform for empowerment.

 

Despite the unprecedented support from South Africans that Ms Dania currently enjoys, Ms Adetshina still enjoys goodwill and a large fanbase in Nigeria.

 

The 25 Miss Universe Nigeria hopefuls are in camp in preparation for the Miss Universe Nigeria finale this Saturday at the Convention Centre, Eko Hotel & Suites.

NLC threatens indefinite strike as Ajaero honours police invitation

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President of Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Joe Ajaero, and have Nigerian workers to contend with.This is the stand of NLC while threatening an indefinite nationwide strike as the Force Headquarters (FHQ) grills Ajaero today over allegations of terrorism financing, cybercrime, and other offences.

 

To keep tabs on events following Ajaero’s visit to the police, NLC asked all its national officers and affiliate unions to accompany its president to the FHQ.

 

Meanwhile, Labour Party (LP) chieftain, Linus Okorie, has warned against “the deployment of internal security and police by the Federal Government against Ajaero,” insisting that it will pose a Task of Hercules to silence the NLC President.

 

A notification to all affiliates and state councils by the NLC General Secretary, Emmanuel Ugboaja, yesterday, entitled ‘Mobilisation for Peaceful Procession and Prayer Session in Solidarity’ urged their members in Abuja and across the states to mobilise and show solidarity.

 

The Congress said all Central Working Committee (CWC) members in Abuja and other members are expected to assemble at the National Headquarters of NLC today by 8.00 am to accompany Ajaero to Louis Edet House for the scheduled interaction.

 

It urged others to gather at their respective state secretariats, from where they would embark on a peaceful procession to their state police headquarters for a prayer session until the end of Ajaero’s interaction with the police.

 

Ugboaja said the peaceful march is a united stand against the unjust actions aimed at “intimidating our leadership and stifling the voice of Nigerian workers. We urge all members to remain peaceful and orderly throughout the procession and prayer session. If for any reason, the president is detained; all workers nationwide shall proceed on indefinite strike.”

 

The NLC leader was asked to appear before the Intelligence Response Team (IRT) on August 20. But Ajaero declined the invitation, demanding details of the allegations against him.

 

In a letter through Samuel Ogala, Principal Partner at the Falana & Falana’s Chambers, Ajaero said he would be available for questioning on Thursday, August 29.

 

OKORIE, who represented Ohaozara, Onicha, and Ivo federal constituency of Ebonyi State in the lower chamber, expressed dismay over the action against Ajaero.

 

In a statement made available to newsmen, Okorie said: “There is typically little or no distinction between the law and the exercise of political power by the executive and the deployment of internal security, and police forces play a heightened role in governance.

 

“A police state is a characteristic of authoritarian, totalitarian or illiberal regimes (contrary to a liberal democratic regime). Such governments are typically one-party states, but a police state may emerge in a democracy.” He noted that Ajaero was, in November 2023, during a protest in Owerri, allegedly singled out by the police accompanied by thugs.

 

“In a joint press release then, the NLC and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) said ‘police accompanied by thugs inflicted heavy injuries and blows on Ajaero’s head and body, kicking him in the process, while dragging him on the ground’.

 

“NLC spokesman Benson Upah also alleged that police continued to assault Ajaero after taking him away, causing injuries that shut his right eye. He was later released and immediately went to receive medical treatment for facial injuries,” he added.

Tragedy In Lekki: Woman Dies After Injection At BBL Clinic, Nurse Arrested

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The Lagos State Police have apprehended a nurse in Lekki following the death of a 36-year-old woman, known simply known as Abiola.

 

Speaking via a statement, Police spokesperson, Benjamin Hundeyin disclosed that the driver of the deceased reported the incident at the Maroko Police Division.

 

According to Hundeyin, the driver explained that he drove his employer, a resident of Diamond Estate in Sangotedo-Lekki, to a clinic in Lekki Phase 1 for a cosmetic procedure to enhance her figure, specifically, a Brazilian Butt Lift.

 

However, Abiola lost her life during the procedure.

 

The driver said the deceased died after a nurse administered an injection on her.

 

He said, ”Upon our arrival, the clinic owner directed a nurse to administer the injection on Abiola. Moments later, chaos ensued as the woman lost consciousness and started gasping for breath.

 

“Desperate for help, the driver rushed Abiola to another hospital in Lekki Phase 1 but she was confirmed dead by the staff on duty upon arrival.”

 

Hundeyin added that detectives had visited the scene, where they meticulously gathered evidence, inspected and photographed her remains and subsequently transported the corpse to a public morgue for autopsy.

 

He confirmed that the nurse involved has been taken into custody and the commissioner of police, Adegoke Fayoade, has asked for an investigation into the harrowing incident.

Four Nigerians jailed in UK for forging over 2,000 marriage documents

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Four Nigerian nationals have been sentenced to prison in the United Kingdom after being convicted of forging over 2,000 marriage certificates to facilitate illegal residency in the country.

 

The convicts, identified as Abraham Alade Olarotimi Onifade (41), Abayomi Aderinsoye Shodipo (38), Nosimot Mojisola Gbadamosi (31), and Adekunle Kabir (54), were all sentenced at Woolwich Crown Court in London on Tuesday.

 

The Home Office revealed that the group was part of an organized criminal network that submitted fraudulent applications under the EU Settlement Scheme for Nigerian nationals between 2019 and 2023.

 

The operation, which included the provision of false Nigerian Customary Marriage Certificates and other fraudulent documentation, allowed numerous individuals to remain in the UK illegally.

 

An investigation conducted by the Home Office in collaboration with authorities in Lagos uncovered that the group facilitated over 2,000 false marriage documents. The convicted persons, all of Nigerian origin, were integral to the criminal enterprise.

 

Paul Moran, Chief Immigration Officer at the Home Office, stated, “This group was absolutely prolific in their desire to abuse our borders and have rightly been brought to justice.

 

“As with many gangs we encounter, their sole priority was financial gain. I am delighted that my team was able to intercept their operation, and I hope these convictions will serve as a warning to unscrupulous gangs who exploit people’s desperation to remain in the UK.

 

“We will continue to work tirelessly to secure our borders and clamp down on the gangs who prey on vulnerable people to make money.”

 

Onifade, from Gravesend in Kent, and Shodipo, from Manchester, were both found guilty of conspiracy to facilitate illegal entry into the UK and conspiracy to provide articles used in fraud. They were sentenced to six years and five years in prison, respectively.

 

Gbadamosi, from Bolton, was convicted of obtaining leave to remain by deception and fraud by false representation. She received a six-year prison sentence.

 

Kabir, from London, was found guilty of possession of an identity document with improper intention but was cleared of obtaining leave to remain by deception. He was sentenced to nine months in prison.

Nigerian, 2 others sentenced to life imprisonment over murder of 25-year-old man in UK

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In a harrowing case of revenge violence, three men have been sentenced to life imprisonment for the murder of 25-year-old Hamza Iqbal in London.

 

Joshua Oladele, Micah Hines, and Ali Alamiri were convicted for their roles in the brutal attack that occurred on September 24, 2023, on Wembley Way.

 

The court heard that Iqbal was fatally stabbed 23 times by the trio who were carrying out a revenge attack on behalf of 28-year-old Dontae Smicle, who had been stabbed 11 days earlier. The attack was reportedly driven by a gang territory dispute.

 

On the evening of the murder, Iqbal and his friends were confronted by Oladele, Hines, and Alamiri, who were armed with machetes. The three men, all 21 years old, had been picked up by Smicle and driven to the scene.

 

Upon exiting their vehicle wearing hoodies and balaclavas, they attacked Iqbal and his group. Despite attempts to flee, Iqbal was chased down by Oladele and subjected to a savage assault.

 

Judge Rosa Dean described the attack as a “punishment killing” and noted the terror Iqbal must have experienced as he was repeatedly stabbed. Iqbal was pronounced dead at Northwick Park Hospital approximately an hour after the attack.

 

The court heard from Iqbal’s grieving family, who remembered him as a devoted family man and an Arsenal fan. They spoke of the profound impact of his loss and the ongoing void left in their lives.

 

Oladele, Hines, and Alamiri were apprehended shortly after the incident. Oladele and Hines were found hiding in Woolwich, while Alamiri was arrested at his home.

 

During the trial, the defendants claimed they were acting under Smicle’s orders and sought to scare Iqbal’s group rather than kill them. Smicle, who orchestrated the attack, has since fled the country.

 

In sentencing, Judge Dean expressed disappointment that the defendants showed no remorse or apology.

 

She sentenced Oladele to a minimum of 28 years, Hines to a minimum of 25 years, and Alamiri to a minimum of 24 years in prison.

 

The case underscores the severe consequences of gang-related violence and the deep impact on victims’ families.

Activist and Whistleblower Mahdi Shehu reveals inside details of why NIA DG resigned

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Activist and Whistleblower Mahdi Shehu reveals inside details of why NIA DG resigned

 

Activist and whistleblower Mahdi Shehu has provided an insider account regarding the resignation of Ahmed Rufai, the Director-General (DG) of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA).

According to Mahdi, Ahmed Rufai, who held the position since April 2017, was a key figure among former President Buhari’s appointees, known for his influence.

 

Mahdi claimed that Rufai’s resignation traces back to 2017, when a sting operation was orchestrated by certain northern power brokers, involving the then EFCC Chairman, Ibrahim Magu.

 

According to him, the operation targeted the NIA’s Lagos office, resulting in the controversial removal of large sums of money—$43 million and £34 million.

 

Mahdi alleged that part of the operation’s intent was to create a vacancy at the NIA, ultimately leading to Ahmed Rufai’s appointment as DG, despite an ongoing court case by Ambassador Eke Ayodele, the former DG of NIA.

 

Mahdi noted that Ayodele was eventually cleared of any wrongdoing in 2023 and was ordered by the court to be reinstated.

 

He suggested that political considerations, particularly the upcoming 2023 presidential elections, influenced the decision to retain Ahmed Rufai in his position temporarily. He also hinted at promises made by President Tinubu to reinstate Ayodele after the elections.

 

He wrote on X: ”In April 2017, in a deliberately designed sting operation to create a vacuum by force and subterfuge at the NIA, initiated by Sabiu tunde and two other northern cabals, Magu, the then Efcc Chairman using an insider informant from NIA operations unit, was drafted to invade the lagos operational office of the NIA, which he forcefully broke into and removed $43m and £34m.

 

”$10m was allegedly reported to have been “stolen” out of the “recovery” when it was taken for custody at the CBN by an NIA accounts staff who was silently transferred out. Don’t ask me if the $10m was returned.

 

”Even before the report of the presidential investigation was submitted and in spite of the existing court case instituted by Ayodele Eke, Buhari was misled into appointing Ahmed Rufai as the New DG NIA.

 

”As a reward, Tunde Sabiu, who was never a member of the intelligence community, was rewarded with the post of Assistant Director at the NIA while still holding the post of PA to C in C and posted to the villa. To date, he is a staff of the NIA just to give him a soft landing.

 

”Eke Ayodele, who was suspended in April 2017 by Buhari, pending the outcome of the investigation, went to court to contest his indictment arising from Magu’s raid.

 

”In 2023, the court cleared Ambassador Eke Ayodele from any wrongdoing and ordered that he be reinstated back to his seat as DG NIA being a statutory tenure appointment with constitutional favour.

 

”The court order came before the elections, and removing Rufai and reinstating Ayodele may be a spoiler for the APC in the North, particularly aware of the role expected to “be played” by Ahmed Rufai in the 2023 presidential election.

 

”Even after “declared” winner, Tinubu ” retained” Ahmed Rufai in ” appreciation” to his role but behind the scenes assuring Eke Ayodele of his plans to implement the court order that restored him to his seat.”