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“Politicians are reportedly enlisting student leaders and other individuals to incite violent protests, according to the DSS.”

Tosin Ranks
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“Politicians are reportedly enlisting student leaders and other individuals to incite violent protests, according to the DSS.”

On Monday, the Department of State Services announced the discovery of a plot by certain politicians across the nation to orchestrate violent protests.

Their plan involved mobilizing student leaders, ethnic associations, and other groups to protest against the Federal Government and security agencies regarding various socio-economic issues.

According to Peter Afunanya, the spokesperson for the service, intelligence reports in their possession have unveiled these intentions.

Afunanya also mentioned that the individuals behind this plot have been identified and are currently under surveillance to prevent any actions that could lead to chaos in the country.

The statement released by the Department of State Services stated:

“We want to inform the public that we have uncovered plans by some individuals in different parts of the country to organize violent protests aimed at discrediting the Federal Government and security agencies in relation to various socio-economic concerns.

Our intelligence reports indicate that the instigators include certain politicians who are actively recruiting unsuspecting student leaders, ethnically-based associations, youth, and dissatisfied groups for this purpose.

Furthermore, we have identified the key figures behind this plan and are closely monitoring their activities to prevent any attempt to destabilize the nation.”

Afunanya also called upon university vice-chancellors and leaders of tertiary institutions to discourage their students from participating in activities that could disrupt peace in the country.

He urged parents and guardians to advise their children and wards to avoid engaging in behaviors that go against the law and order.

Furthermore, the statement emphasized that those contemplating taking advantage of the nation’s challenges to cause chaos should reconsider their actions.

The Department of State Services warned that it would take legal action against individuals and groups involved in such sinister plans.

It’s important to note that the announcement comes amid the scheduled final hearing on a presidential election petition, where the Peoples Democratic Party and its candidates, Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi, as well as the Labour Party, are challenging the victory of President Bola Tinubu in the February 25 Presidential election.

While Tinubu’s legal team expressed hope for a favorable outcome, Atiku’s legal team called on the tribunal to remain impartial and deliver justice without influence from the executive branch.

“Sanwo-Olu inaugurates the commencement of operations for the Lagos Blue Line Rail by taking a ride.”

Tosin Ranks
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0
“Sanwo-Olu inaugurates the commencement of operations for the Lagos Blue Line Rail by taking a ride.”

The eagerly awaited commercial operations of the Lagos Rail Mass Transit Blue Line System have finally commenced.

Notably, the inaugural passenger on this historic ride was the Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who embarked on the journey from the Marina terminal, heading towards Mile 2 on Monday.

This significant development was officially announced by Mrs. Abimbola Akinajo, the Managing Director of the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority, on Thursday.

She further mentioned that the Lagos Blue Line Rail officially began its commercial operations on Monday, September 4, with Governor Sanwo-Olu taking the inaugural ride.

Stay tuned for more details as this exciting project unfolds.

“Charles III’s Upcoming Celebration of His First Year as King”

Tosin Ranks
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“Charles III’s Upcoming Celebration of His First Year as King”

Britain’s Charles III is commemorating his first year as king this week, characterized by a seamless transition from his late mother, Queen Elizabeth II.

The anniversary, coinciding with his mother’s passing at 96, will likely be observed privately.

Charles, at 74, has gracefully assumed his role after a lengthy 70-year wait as heir, the longest in British history.

Yet, he hasn’t instigated sweeping changes to the monarchy, leading some to view his reign as transitional before his son, Prince William, takes the reins.

“I think the transition has been much smoother than was anticipated,” says Pauline Maclaran, a professor at Royal Holloway, University of London.

Charles’s official coronation took place on May 6, marked by a more modern and concise ceremony compared to his mother’s in 1953.

While Charles remains less popular than both his late mother and Prince William, his approval rating has risen significantly since becoming king, with 55 percent of Britons expressing a positive opinion, up from 44 percent a year ago.

As king, Charles has been visible throughout the country, often alongside Camilla, appearing more approachable than Elizabeth II.

His reign exudes a sense of “more humanity,” according to Jonathan Spangler, a history lecturer at Manchester Metropolitan University.

Maclaran describes him as “humble and accessible,” particularly during a period of economic challenges in Britain.

However, Charles’s reign lacks a defining moment, and unresolved issues, such as calls for an apology over the colonial legacy, persist.

The pro-republic movement has also gained momentum, challenging the constitutional future of the British royal family.

Charles’s international engagements include a state visit to Germany, with plans for a rescheduled visit to France.

Reports suggest a major overseas tour to strengthen relations with the Commonwealth.

Despite fewer state visits, he has hosted foreign leaders like US President Joe Biden, South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Closer to home, Charles has navigated the revelations in Prince Harry’s memoir and the docu-series released by Harry and Meghan, addressing their reasons for leaving the royal family in 2020.

Charles adhered to the Queen’s “never explain, never complain” approach during these controversies, managing them effectively.

In summary, Charles III’s first year as king has been marked by a smooth transition, an approachable demeanor, and rising approval ratings, but challenges and questions about the monarchy’s future remain.

 

“Dangote and its subsidiaries have contributed a substantial N474 billion in taxes over the span of three years.”

Tosin Ranks
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0
“Dangote and its subsidiaries have contributed a substantial N474 billion in taxes over the span of three years.”

During the first quarter of 2023, the Federal Government of Nigeria’s spending surpassed its revenue by N1.43tn, as reported by the Central Bank of Nigeria. This deficit was 9.6% higher than the previous quarter in 2022.

The CBN’s economic report for the third quarter of 2023, as obtained by The PUNCH, highlighted that this fiscal deficit was 22.1% lower than the targeted deficit.

The report attributed this fiscal performance to a decrease in oil revenue, resulting in a 10.7% reduction in retained revenue compared to the previous quarter in 2022 and a 46.1% shortfall compared to the quarterly target.

Additionally, the Federal Government’s total expenditure decreased by 1.3% compared to the preceding quarter and a significant 36.0% below the quarterly target.

Overall, the Federal Government’s deficit widened compared to the fourth quarter of 2022 but narrowed by 22.1% concerning the proportional budget.

As of the end of December 2022, the consolidated public debt stood at N46.25tn, equivalent to 22.8% of the GDP.

The report also noted that gross federation revenue in the first quarter of 2023 amounted to N3.48tn, falling short of the levels in the fourth quarter of 2022 by 0.4% and the budget benchmark by 26.6%.

Non-oil revenue continued to be the primary source of government revenue, accounting for 61.4%, while oil receipts constituted 38.6% of the total.

Oil revenue declined by 3.0% and 43.5% compared to the fourth quarter of 2022 and the quarterly target, respectively.

This drop was attributed to revenue shortfalls from petroleum profit tax and royalties due to lower domestic crude production.

Conversely, non-oil receipts improved slightly by 1.2% compared to the preceding quarter but remained 9.6% below the quarterly target of N2.37tn.

The CBN report reveals that FG’s expenses in a three-month period surpass its revenue by a substantial margin of N1.43 trillion.

Tosin Ranks
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0
The CBN report reveals that FG’s expenses in a three-month period surpass its revenue by a substantial margin of N1.43 trillion.

During the first quarter of 2023, the Federal Government of Nigeria faced a fiscal challenge as its expenditures surpassed its revenue by N1.43tn.

This figure, obtained from the Central Bank of Nigeria’s economic report for the third quarter of 2023, represented a 9.6% increase compared to the previous quarter of 2022.

The report revealed, “In Q1 2023, the fiscal operations of the Federal Government resulted in a deficit of N1.43tn.

This deficit was not only 9.6% higher than the previous quarter but also 22.1% lower than the targeted deficit.”

The main reason behind this deficit was the reduced revenue from oil, which caused the Federal Government’s retained revenue to decrease by 10.7% compared to the fourth quarter of 2022, falling 46.1% below the quarterly target.

Furthermore, the Federal Government’s total expenditure also experienced a decline, dropping by 1.3% compared to the previous quarter and a significant 36.0% below the quarterly target.

In conclusion, while the Federal Government’s overall deficit widened in comparison to the last quarter of 2022, it still managed to narrow it down by 22.1% when compared to the budget allocation.

It’s important to note that as of the end of December 2022, the consolidated public debt stood at N46.25tn, which was equivalent to 22.8% of GDP.

The report highlighted that gross federation revenue in Q1 2023 was N3.48tn, falling short of both the levels in the last quarter of 2022 and the budget benchmark by 0.4% and 26.6%, respectively.

Non-oil revenue played a significant role, accounting for 61.4% of government revenue, while oil receipts made up the remaining 38.6%.

However, oil revenue, at N1.34tn, experienced a decline of 3.0% compared to the last quarter of 2022 and a substantial 43.5% below the quarterly target due to shortfalls in petroleum profit tax and royalties, caused by lower domestic crude production.

On the other hand, non-oil receipts, totaling N2.14tn, showed a slight improvement of 1.2% compared to the preceding quarter but still fell short by 9.6% of the quarterly target of N2.37tn.

“Blaze engulfs Ilorin church in destructive fire.”

Tosin Ranks
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0
“Blaze engulfs Ilorin church in destructive fire.”

On a Sunday evening in Ilorin, Kwara State, a furious fire ravaged the auditorium and three offices of The Word Assembly Church.

The fire, which reportedly ignited after the Sunday Service, swiftly consumed the church’s main auditorium and three of its six offices along Ajase-Ipo Road in Ilorin.

According to reports from PUNCH Metro, the fire inflicted substantial damage on the church’s property due to the delayed notification to the state fire service and other security agencies in the state.

This information was conveyed in a statement issued by Hassan Adekunle, Head of Media and Publicity of the State Fire Service.

Adekunle explained, “On Sunday, September 3rd, 2023, at approximately 17:08 hours, the Kwara State Fire Service received an urgent call reporting a fire outbreak at The Word Assembly Headquarters along Ajase-Ipo Road in Ilorin, Kwara State.

The distress call was made by one Mr. Akanni. The fire crew promptly responded to the call.

Upon arrival at the scene, they discovered that a devastating inferno had already consumed the church’s auditorium, primarily due to the delayed notification, despite the significant damage caused by the fire.

Nevertheless, the firefighters managed to contain the inferno, preventing it from spreading further.”

Adekunle also highlighted that the building materials used were not fire-retardant, including aluminum roofing and plywood for the ceiling, contributing to the fire’s rapid spread before the fire service’s arrival.

In addition to the auditorium, the fire affected three of the church’s six offices. An investigation into the cause of the outbreak suggested it might have resulted from a power surge.

Prominent figures, such as Alhaji AbdulRazaq Jiddah, Senior Special Assistant to the Kwara Governor on Special Duties, and Prince Falade John Olumuyiwa, the Director of the Kwara State Fire Service, were present at the scene, along with various security agencies, including the Nigeria Police, Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps, and the Federal Fire Service, who provided support and assistance to mitigate property damage during the fire incident.

The Kwara State Fire Service estimated the total property loss in the incident at N39.5 Million, while the total estimated property saved amounted to N74.3 Million.

Director Falade Olumuyiwa stressed the critical importance of prompt reporting of fire incidents by the general public and urged citizens to swiftly contact the fire service when a fire occurs, emphasizing that rapid action is crucial to minimizing fire damage.

A hospitalized FUNAAB student from the 200-level who was reported missing has been located and is now receiving medical attention.

Tosin Ranks
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0
A hospitalized FUNAAB student from the 200-level who was reported missing has been located and is now receiving medical attention.

On Monday morning, the Ogun State Police Command reported that Solomon Destiny, a 200-level student studying Animal Breeding and Genetics at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, who had been missing, has been located.

He is presently undergoing medical treatment at an undisclosed hospital.

SP Omolola Odutola, the spokesperson for the state police command, conveyed this update briefly to journalists, expressing gratitude for their swift and proactive efforts. She stated, “Thank you, esteemed members of the press, for your rapid and effective actions.

I am very appreciative of the extensive coverage.

I am pleased to inform you that our beloved 200-level student has been found alive and is presently receiving medical care.”

Previously, the Students’ Union Government of the university had raised concerns about Solomon’s disappearance, indicating that he was last seen in Ogboja village in the Oluwo-Osiele area of Abeokuta.

They had requested any valuable information that could aid in locating him.

Additionally, Mr. Kola Adepoju, the Head of the Directorate of Public Relations at FUNAAB, confirmed the situation and assured everyone that the university’s management had promptly alerted relevant security agencies.

He emphasized their commitment to finding Solomon and reuniting him safely with his family and colleagues.

While confirming this heartening news to our correspondent, Adepoju mentioned, “Details are currently limited, but I will provide further updates later.

Thank you for your understanding.”

 

“NLC and TUC instruct employees to participate in the strike.”

Tosin Ranks
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0
“NLC and TUC instruct employees to participate in the strike.”

After the Nigeria Labour Congress declared a two-day warning strike, several state chapters of the organized labor union have expressed their intention to participate in this industrial action.

Leaders of these state chapters have, in separate interviews, conveyed their decision to instruct their members to join the warning strike, scheduled for September 5 and 6, 2023.

For instance, Mrs. Agnes Sessi, the Chairperson of the NLC Lagos chapter, stated that Lagos NLC will wholeheartedly participate in the nationwide strike, emphasizing their adherence to decisions made at the national level.

Similarly, Abdullahi Jungle, the Sokoto State NLC Chairman, confirmed that their union in the state is actively mobilizing members for the two-day warning strike, with discussions underway regarding the necessary arrangements.

Kabiru Inuwa, Chairman of the Kano State NLC, revealed that the decision to participate in the warning strike was reached during the National Executive Council meeting in Abuja.

Plans are in motion for the strike’s commencement on Tuesday, following a State Executive Council meeting.

The Ekiti State chapter, represented by Chairman Kolapo Olatunde, asserted that members would join the strike if the Federal Government fails to address their concerns.

Communication from the national body has already reached Ekiti State, confirming their collective decision to participate.

Ibrahim Fika, General Secretary of the NLC in Gombe State, expressed their intent to join the strike after a State Executive Council meeting on Monday, aligning with the national directive.

The Niger State NLC chapter engaged in a crucial meeting with affiliate bodies, including the Nigerian Union of Teachers and civil service unions, in preparation for the warning strike.

A press conference was announced for Monday to present the strike’s modalities.

Finally, Comrade Shu’aibu Dauda, Chairman of the Bauchi State NLC, stressed their readiness to participate in the strike, as it stems from a directive by the national secretariat.

State Executive Council meetings would be held to discuss and convey the National Secretariat’s resolution.

In summary, various state chapters of the NLC are gearing up to participate in the nationwide warning strike as directed by the national body, coordinating their efforts to ensure effective industrial action.

“Complete Compilation: Victors of the 2023 Headies Awards”

Tosin Ranks
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0
“Complete Compilation: Victors of the 2023 Headies Awards”

On the evening of September 3, 2023, the 16th edition of the Headies Award unfolded in Atlanta, Georgia, marking its second consecutive year in this location.

Since its establishment in 2006, the Headies has consistently played a significant role in chronicling the remarkable achievements within the Nigerian music industry. It has achieved this through its prestigious awards, which have evolved to become the most coveted honors in the Nigerian music scene.

During this memorable night, Rema, the shining star from Mavin Records, emerged as the most celebrated artist, clinching three prestigious awards. Notably, his speech on the resurgence of Nigerian music left a lasting impression and stood out as a highlight of the event.

In addition to Rema’s success, other notable winners included Asake, who secured two awards, including the highly coveted Next Rated Award. The internationally acclaimed Burna Boy also took home two awards, one for Afrobeat Single of the Year and the other for Best R&B Song.

For a comprehensive list of all the winners, please see below.

BEST RAP SINGLE

‘Declan Rice’ by ODUMODUBLVCK

BEST MALE VOCAL PERFORMANCE

‘Kpe Paso’ by Wande Coal

BEST ALTERNATIVE SONG

‘Tinko Tinko’ by Obong Jayar

BEST VIDEO DIRECTOR

‘Calm Down’ by Director K (Rema)

BEST RAP ALBUM

‘Young Preacher‘ by Blaqbonez

LYRICIST ON THE ROLL

‘Flytalk Only’ by Payper Corleone

PRODUCER OF THE YEAR

‘Abracadabra’by Rexxie

BEST MALE ARTIST

Rema

ROOKIE OF THE YEAR

ODUMODUBLVCK

BEST INSPIRATIONAL SONG

‘Eze Ebube’ by Neon Adejo

AFROBEATS SINGLE OF THE YEAR

‘Last Last’ by Burna Boy

SPECIAL RECOGNITION’

Sound Sultan

DIGITAL ARTIST OF THE YEAR

‘Calm Down’ by Rema 

BEST STREET HIP-HOP ARTISTE

‘Chance (Na Ham)’ by Seyi Vibez

NEXT-RATED

Asake

ALBUM OF THE YEAR

 ‘Mr. Money With The Vibe’ by Asake

BEST COLLABORATION

‘Who’s Your Guy Remix’  by Spyro, Tiwa Savage

AFRICAN ARTISTE OF THE YEAR  

Rema (Nigeria)

BEST WEST AFRICAN ARTISTE OF THE YEAR 

Black Sherif (Ghana)

BEST R&B Album

‘The Brother’s Keeper’ by Chike 

INTERNATIONAL ARTISTE OF THE YEAR

Selena Gomez

BEST RECORDING OF THE YEAR

‘Soweto’ by Victony, Tempoe

BEST VOCAL PERFORMANCE (FEMALE)

In Between by Waje

BEST CENTRAL AFRICAN ARTISTE OF THE YEAR

Libianca (Cameroon)

HEADIES VIEWERS’ CHOICE

‘Soweto’ by Victony

BEST EAST AFRICAN ARTISTE OF THE YEAR

Diamond Platinumz (Tanzania)

BEST NORTH AFRICAN ARTISTE OF THE YEAR

El Grande Toto (Morocco)

SONGWRITER OF THE YEAR

‘Loyal’ by Simi Kosoko, Goodsfavour Chidozie, Kosoko Adekunle, Marcel Akunwata

BEST R&B SINGLE

“For my hand’ by Burna Boy 

BEST FEMALE ARTISTE

Ayra Starr

BEST SOUTHERN AFRICAN ARTISTE OF THE YEAR

Focalistic (South Africa)

BEST ALTERNATIVE ALBUM

‘Gbagada Express’ by BOJ 

HALL OF FAME

Youssou N’dour

 

 

Soma Anyama, The Ultimate Underdog of #BBNaijaAllStars with Multitude of Talents

Ranks-Staff
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Soma Anyama, The Ultimate Underdog of #BBNaijaAllStars with Multitude of Talents

In the electrifying arena of BBNaija All Stars 2023, where talents collide and personalities shine, one name has emerged as the ultimate underdog, stealing hearts and captivating audiences like never before – Soma! This powerhouse contestant is not just a contender; he’s the very essence of what makes BBNaija All Stars extraordinary.

That name is Somadina Anyama, but you may know him better as SOMA – a true Nigerian Renaissance man, a gifted singer, a prolific songwriter, a captivating actor, and a striking model. But that’s just the tip of the iceberg!

Soma

Soma is a force of nature, an enigmatic artist with talents that are beyond measure. He effortlessly juggles multiple roles as an actor, a fashion designer, a model, and a musician, leaving us all in awe of his boundless creativity and unparalleled charm.

While many were introduced to Soma through Big Brother Naija Season 2, where he was evicted early, the glimpses of his talent we caught on the show only scratched the surface of his immense abilities. In 2017, after leaving the Big Brother house, Soma embarked on a journey that has seen him conquer the entertainment industry with style and grace, seamlessly transitioning between music and acting gigs.

But the year 2023 has brought with it a dazzling twist. Soma has returned to the Big Brother Naija All-Stars edition with a burning determination not only to stay but to shine brighter than ever before. He’s not just a contestant; he’s a revelation, ready to dazzle the world with his extraordinary talents, and he’s here to stay until the final curtain falls.

Soma’s presence in the Big Brother Naija house has been nothing short of spectacular. He’s a multi-faceted gem, showcasing his acting prowess, unleashing his musical magic, and oozing professionalism in every move he makes. Viewers can’t help but be spellbound by the sheer magnitude of his talent and the delightful unpredictability of his every action.

Soma

In fact, Soma is not just competing; he’s on a mission to claim the coveted 120 million Naira prize as his own. He’s not just a contestant; he’s the embodiment of raw talent, a living testament to the power of dreams, and he’s ready to prove that he’s worth every penny of that grand prize.

But Soma isn’t just about talent; he’s also about heart and soul. His connection with Angel in the house has been a beautiful revelation. Their relationship is a testament to the power of genuine friendship and respect, proving that in the high-stakes world of Big Brother Naija, true bonds can thrive without disrespect or discord. It’s a relationship that’s not just about drama but about genuine content, and it’s touched the hearts of viewers like never before.

What makes Soma truly remarkable is not just his presence in the house, but the unwavering support he receives from his dedicated team and fans outside the BBNaija walls. Their relentless efforts to rally behind their favorite are awe-inspiring. From trending his name to countering agendas and to fearlessly voting, they have shown that they are a force to be reckoned with. Kudos to them for their undying love and support for Soma!

So, in the grand tapestry of Big Brother Naija 2023, Soma stands as a shining star, a beacon of talent, charisma, and authenticity. He’s not just a contestant; he’s a phenomenon, a force to be reckoned with, and a true entertainer in every sense of the word. As we watch his journey unfold, one thing is abundantly clear – Soma is here to stay, to inspire, and to win not just a reality show but the hearts of millions. Stay tuned for the incredible journey of Soma, the All-Star Sensation!

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