Posts

Showing posts from January, 2025

Shari’ah Imbroglio: MURIC alleges plot to unleash violence on Southwest Muslims

Image
The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has alleged that there is an evil plot to unleash violence on South West Muslims by some faceless groups. The group has, therefore, asked the Inspector General of Police, Director General of the Department of State Security (DSS) and other security agencies to stop the move and secure the lives of every Muslim resident in the MURIC, in a statement on Friday by its Executive Director, Prof. Ishaq Akintola, disclosed that there had been a plethora of threats in video clips and articles circulated on social media, which were directed at Yoruba Muslims and their leaders over the ongoing Shari’ah controversy. Alleging that the threats were being issued on a daily basis by different Yoruba groups, MURIC cited the latest statement issued by one Ahmed Saliu Olokoju, who claimed to be the Secretary General of Yoruba Islamic Salvation Front (YOISF). The statement added: “In an article captioned ‘Shariah in Yorubaland: The Fulani Grand Plot to Destroy Yorub...

Naira Rises To N1,493/$ In Official Market

Image
  The Naira rose to N1,493 in the official foreign exchange market on Thursday.  According to data published by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), the exchange rate for the Nigerian Foreign Exchange Market (NFEM) fell to N1,493 per dollar from N1,506 per dollar on Wednesday, indicating N13 appreciation for the naira. The official exchange rate once reached the N1,400 per dollar threshold in January and May 2024. The official exchange rate has been on an appreciating trend following the launch of the CBN Foreign Exchange Code this week. On the other hand, the Naira appreciated to N1,620 in the parallel market from N1,630 per dollar on Wednesday. Consequently, the margin between the parallel market and NFEM rate widened to N127 per dollar from N124 per dollar on Wednesday.

National Lagos hotelier arrested over alleged sodomy of teenagers

Image
A Lagos hotelier has been arrested by the police following allegations of sodomy involving a 16-year-old secondary school student. The arrest came after a complaint by the boy’s father, Edozie Christian, a spare parts dealer at Ladipo Market in Mushin, Lagos. The incident reportedly began in December 2024 when the teenager confided in his mother, revealing that he had a confession to make before the New Year. According to the father, the boy disclosed that the hotel owner had lured him and four other students to his hotel in the Bucknor, Isheri Oshun area of Lagos State, where he allegedly sodomised them. The hotelier reportedly warned the boys that they would die if they revealed the incident to anyone. After the confession, the boy allegedly began exhibiting erratic behaviour, described as “acting like a mad person,” and was rushed to a prayer house for intervention. When he regained some composure days later, he was taken to the Isheri Osun police station, where he provided a state...

[Romance Hub] 10 worst mistakes women make in bed

Image
  B edroom mistakes   can negatively impact the quality of your s3xual experiences. This article explores 10 common bedroom habits that women may want to re-evaluate for a more fulfilling s3xual experience. It’s important to note that this list is not about assigning blame or pointing fingers, but rather a gentle exploration of behaviours that may inadvertently hinder intimacy and pleasure. Neglecting Communication Open and honest communication is crucial for a satisfying sexual experience. Don’t be afraid to express your desires and listen to your partner’s needs.   Focusing Solely on Physical Pleasure While physical pleasure is important, emotional intimacy and connection play a vital role in a fulfilling sexual experience.    Relying on Routine Breaking out of sexual routines can reignite passion. You should try new things, experiment, and keep things exciting.   Prioritizing Performance Over Pleasure Focusing on “performing” can create unnecessary press...

FBN Holdings Plc’s gross earnings hit N3.33tr as profit rises by 142% to N0.9tr

Image
As reflected in its unaudited Group Financial Statements, FBN Holdings recorded a 142% year-on-year (y-o-y) increase in Profit Before Tax (PBT) to N862 billion, while Gross Earnings surged by 113% y-o-y to N3.33 trillion. Key highlights of the results showed that net interest income grew by 155% y-o-y to N1.39 trillion, non-interest income rose by 43.3% to N846.9 billion compared to N255.8bn in 2023, loans to customers increased significantly by N2.797 trillion, closing at N9.4 trillion, customer deposits rose by 62%, to N17.29 trillion and total assets increased to N26.54 trillion, up from N16.94 trillion. The outstanding financial results showcase significant growth across multiple key metrics. The strong growth recorded on net interest income is a testament to FBN Holdings Plc’s resilience and ability to deliver value in a competitive and evolving market landscape. But for the impairment charge of N411 billion, the PBT would have been N1.3 trillion. The Group also recorded a ...

FG unveils $23.2b energy compact, targets $15.5b private

Image
Federal Government has unveiled a $23.2 billion National Energy Compact (NEC) aimed at accelerating Nigeria’s energy transition and addressing the country’s persistent power supply challenges with a target of $15.5 billion in private sector investment to bridge the country’s energy deficit and promote cleaner, sustainable energy solutions. The energy access programme, tagged NEC, will be led by the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu. The initiative is a direct outcome of the recently concluded Mission 300 Africa Energy Summit held in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Through the programme, the government aims to increase electricity access from four per cent to nine per cent yearly to bridge the energy gap and enhance access to clean cooking solutions from 22 per cent to 25 per cent, yearly. The programme also aims to increase the share of renewable energy in the power generation mix from 22 per cent to 50 per cent and mobilise $15.5 billion in private investments to drive last-mile electr...

CP BETTY ENEKPEN OTIMENYIN HOLDS MAIDEN BRIEFING WITH ALL SENIOR OFFICERS IN THE COMMAND

Image
The Commissioner of Police, Edo State Command, CP Betty Enekpen Isokpan Otimenyin, psc, mnips held her first briefing with Senior Officers where she emphasized the importance of adopting open-door policy and community policing approach. This strategy aims to foster stronger relationships between the police and the community, promoting trust, cooperation, and effective crime prevention. The Commissioner stressed the need for DPOs to ensure that their phone numbers are written conspicuously at their respective charge rooms, engage with stakeholders, including hunters and vigilantes, to gather intelligence, prevent crimes, and address community concerns. This collaborative approach is crucial in maintaining law and order, as well as ensuring the safety and security of Edo State residents. In addition, the Commissioner reiterated the warning issued by the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, PhD, fdc, prohibiting all officers from wearing dark glasses while in unifor...

LSHA Crisis: Ex-Speaker Obasa’s Removal Legal, Lagos Lawmakers Insist

Image
Obasa was removed some weeks back owing to allegations of corruption and other offences. While the former speaker had claimed he is still in charge -even when another person has been elected into the position – the Lagos State Assembly on Thursday said Obasa’s removal remains binding. “The Lagos State House of Assembly, as an independent arm of government, has exercised its constitutional duty in the best interest of the people of Lagos,” a statement by Ogundipe Stephen Olukayode on behalf of the Lagos State Assembly read after the lawmakers honoured an invitation by the Lagos Command of the Department of State Services (DSS). “The decision to remove the former Speaker was made through a democratic process, with the required majority as stipulated by law. Any attempt to challenge this lawful action undermines the authority granted to us by the Nigerian Constitution.” They said Obasa’s removal was in line with the provisions of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nig...

Murder Charge: Lagos Re-Arraigns Evans Over Police Officers’ Death

Image
Evans and his co-defendant, Joseph Emeka, were arraigned before Justice Adenike Coker on a five-count charge of murder, attempted murder, and conspiracy to commit kidnapping. They both pleaded not guilty. The prosecutor, Yusuf Sule, then asked the court for a date so that the trial could proceed. The judge sought to know about the report on the defendant’s plea bargain application. The prosecutor told the court that the matter is currently before a committee set up by the state government. In his response, Evans’ lead defence counsel, Emefo Etudo, says he newly took up the case to represent the first defendant and that his primary focus is to pursue the plea bargain request and not a trial. Chief Etudo also told the court that the substance of Evans’ application for a plea bargain is with respect to three pending criminal cases and another two on compassionate grounds. He added that while in custody, Evans recently bagged a Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE) while in custody...

Nigeria Is Bleeding,’ Gov Fintiri Tells FG

Image
He made the statement during a meeting of the National Reconciliation Committee of the People’s Democratic Party with governors from the North East and other key stakeholders in Bauchi. Attending the meeting were the Governors of Bauchi and Taraba, as well as the acting PDP National Chairman. Fintiri expressed frustration with the state of the nation’s economy, stating: “Nigeria is bleeding, we are suffering, there is too much anger, and the economic policy is not working. That is why we always call on the Federal Government to reconsider some of these economic policies that are only putting hardship on Nigerians.” He further emphasized that holding a position of power is a privilege given by God, and therefore, the country must be governed based on trust and responsibility. The governor also urged the Federal Government to focus on policies that do not bring further pain to Nigerians, adding: “Whatever will make us cry must not be part of your policy because the country belongs ...

US teen shot dead by father in Pakistan over TikTok videos

Image
  A man who recently moved his family back to Pakistan from the US has confessed to killing his teenage daughter because he disapproved of her TikTok videos, police have told the BBC. Anwar ul-Haq was charged with murder after he admitted to shooting his daughter Hira in the south-western city of Quetta on Tuesday. He initially told investigators that unidentified men were behind the shooting. The father, who has US citizenship, said he found his daughter's posts "objectionable". Police said they were looking at all angles, including the possibility of an honour killing, which is not uncommon in the country. Hundreds of people - most of them women - die in so-called honour killings in Pakistan each year, according to human rights groups. These killings are usually carried out by relatives who say they are acting in defence of their family's honour. In the case of Hira Anwar, who was between 13 and 14 years old, a police spokesman said her family "had an objection...

JUST IN: NACA report cases per week on HIV in 2023

Image
Nigeria recorded a staggering 1,400 new HIV infections and 50,000 AIDS-related deaths weekly in 2023, according to Dr. Temitope Ilori, Director-General of the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA). Addressing the Medical and Dental Consultant Association of Nigeria in Ile-Ife, Osun State, Dr. Ilori highlighted the alarming rate of HIV transmission, particularly among children, with 22,000 new infections recorded in the 0-14 age group. The country contributes significantly to the global HIV burden, accounting for 25% of global mother-to-child transmission. Dr. Ilori emphasized the urgent need to address the epidemic, particularly in pediatric cases, to reduce Nigeria’s role in the global HIV/AIDS crisis. Despite progress in prevention, treatment, and care, challenges persist in securing sustainable funding and ensuring universal access to HIV services. Dr. Ilori called for increased support from stakeholders to strengthen HIV/AIDS policies, enhance funding mechanisms, and impro...

Nigeria’s e-transactions hit N1.07 quadrillion – NIBSS

Image
  Nigeria’s electronic payment transactions reached a record-breaking N1.07 quadrillion in 2024, according to recent data released by the Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement System (NIBSS). This figure, equivalent to approximately $702.6 billion based on the December 31, 2024, exchange rate of N1,535 per dollar, reflects a remarkable 79.6% increase from the N600 trillion recorded in 2023. The data also highlighted consistent growth throughout the year, with December 2024 standing out as the peak period due to festive spending.  Nigerians conducted electronic transactions worth N115.1 trillion in December alone. In terms of volume, the total number of transactions processed by NIBSS rose from 9.7 billion in 2023 to 11.2 billion in 2024, marking a 15.5% year-on-year increase. Additionally, the number of active bank accounts in Nigeria surged to 311.6 million in 2024, further underscoring the expansion of electronic payment systems across the country.

Workers Rescued As Three-Storey Building Collapse In Anambra

Image
  Three workers were rescued on Wednesday following the collapse of a three-story building in Anambra State. The building, which was at the roofing stage, was located near Diamond Pizza, opposite Five Star Eatery, along the Enugu-Onitsha Expressway in Awka. The incident occurred around 5:25 PM, and fortunately, no lives were lost. A local resident who witnessed the collapse described hearing a series of thunderous sounds. Upon rushing out to investigate, they found the building had completely caved in. Rescue efforts began immediately, with victims being pulled from the rubble. Passersby and commuters joined the operation, offering assistance to the injured. Officials from the Awka Capital Territory Development Authority (ACTDA) have since visited the site. The agency has established a panel of inquiry to investigate the immediate and underlying causes of the collapse and has assured the public that further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.

Israel, Hamas Poised For Third Hostage-Prisoner Exchange

Image
A fourth exchange is scheduled for the weekend, but Hamas accused Israel on Wednesday of jeopardising the deal by holding up aid deliveries, an allegation Israel dismissed as “fake news”. The office of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu identified the three Israelis to be released on Thursday as Arbel Yehud, Agam Berger and Gadi Moses, adding that five Thais held in Gaza would also be freed. Ahead of the release, which sources in Hamas and allied militant group Islamic Jihad said would take place at Jabalia refugee camp and Khan Yunis at around 0900 GMT, Islamic jihad aired video footage of Moses and Yehud hugging each other and smiling. On Wednesday, a Moses family statement said it had “received with great excitement the wonderful news of our beloved Gadi’s return”  Demonstrators raise placards as they celebrate the release of three hostages held captive in Gaza since the October 7, 2023 attack by Palestinian militants, in front of the Israeli Defence Ministry in Tel Aviv on Janua...

How to build high profit business as solopreneur

Image
  It’s more than just working for yourself; it’s about creating a sustainable, scalable, and profitable enterprise. This guide outlines key steps to help you achieve solopreneurial success.   Niche Down and Identify Your Ideal Client: * Specificity is Key: Don’t try to be everything to everyone. Identify a specific niche market where you can become an expert and cater to a well-defined target audience. This allows for targeted marketing and higher pricing. * Know Your Customer: Understand your ideal client’s needs, pain points, and desires. This knowledge will inform your product/service development, marketing messages, and pricing strategy. Develop a High-Value Offer: * Solve a Problem: Your product or service should solve a real problem for your target audience. The more effectively you address their needs, the more value you can provide, and the more you can charge. * Focus on Quality: Deliver exceptional quality in everything you do. This builds trust, generates referrals,...

[Romance Hub] Five hot body parts on men that can ignite bedroom mood

Image
  M ood  plays a powerful role in setting the stage for intimacy, and often, it’s the little things that spark desire and attraction. While charm and personality are important, certain physical features on men naturally stand out, have a unique way of sparking desire and elevating the mood in the bedroom. From subtle gestures to well-defined traits, these body parts have a unique way of elevating the romantic atmosphere, turning ordinary moments into something unforgettable. Here are five hot body parts that can ignite passion and deepen the connection between partners: Strong Arms There’s something incredibly alluring about strong, muscular arms. They symbolize strength, protection, and the ability to hold a partner close. A man’s arms, whether toned or naturally firm, can create a sense of security and intimacy, making cuddling or embracing even more romantic. Gentle touches and firm grips from these arms can effortlessly set the mood. Chiseled Jawline A well-defined ja...

Tinubu urges renewed commitment to stabilise Lake Chad Basin

Image
 President Bola Tinubu has urged regional leaders and international partners to demonstrate greater commitment to addressing security and socio-economic challenges bedevilling the Lake Chad Basin. He said this at the inauguration of the 5th Lake Chad Basin Governors’ Forum yesterday in Maiduguri. Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, the President stressed the need for sustained cooperation, effective governance, and investment in development to ensure lasting peace and stability in the region.    Tinubu, who highlighted the progress made through the implementation of the Regional Stabilisation Strategy, Recovery, and Resilience initiatives (RSSRR), however, acknowledged nagging problems of insecurity, climate change, and mass displacement affecting the region.  He said: “The Lake Chad Basin is at a crossroads. The stability of this region is paramount not only to the countries that share borders but to Africa and the world at large.    “We must re...

Meta to pay $25m to settle US President lawsuit over ban

Image
  US President Donald Trump has signed a legal settlement that will see Facebook and Instagram owner Meta pay out roughly $25m (£20m). Trump sued the social media giant and its chief executive, Mark Zuckerberg, in 2021 over the suspension of his accounts after the 6 January Capitol riots that year. In July 2024, Meta lifted the final restrictions on Trump's Facebook and Instagram accounts in the lead up to US presidential elections. The settlement was first reported by the Wall Street Journal. Around $22m of the settlement will go to a fund for Trump's presidential library. The balance will be used to cover legal costs and the other plaintiffs who signed on to the lawsuit. Meta will not admit wrongdoing. The company suspended Trump's accounts in 2021 and said that it would ban him from the platforms for at least two years. After Trump's election victory in November, Mr Zuckerberg visited his Florida resort, Mar-a-Lago. The move was seen as evidence of an apparen...

Ahmed al-Sharaa named Syria's transitional president

Image
S yria's de facto leader, Ahmed al-Sharaa, has been appointed president for the "transitional period," state media reported, seven weeks after leading the rebel offensive that toppled Bashar al-Assad. According to the Sana news agency, rebel military commander Hassan Abdul Ghani announced the annulment of Syria's 2012 constitution and the dissolution of the former regime's parliament, army, and security agencies. As transitional president, Sharaa is tasked with forming an interim legislative council to govern the country until a new constitution is established. Abdul Ghani added that all rebel groups opposing Assad during the 13-year civil war would be disbanded and integrated into state institutions. The announcements were made during a gathering in Damascus on Wednesday, attended by faction leaders who fought alongside Sharaa’s Islamist group, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), in the rebel alliance. The event, titled the "Conference for Announcing the Victory of ...

Rashford 'must change' before Man Utd return - Amorim

Image
  Marcus Rashford "has to change" before returning to action for Manchester United, says head coach Ruben Amorim. It is seven weeks since Rashford, 27, last featured for his club and the England forward said in December he was "ready for a new challenge". Rashford was once again left out of Manchester United's squad for Thursday's Europa League encounter against Romanian side FCSB in Bucharest. "Imagine a talent like Rashford, our team should be so much better with him - but he has to change," Amorim said on Wednesday. "If he changes, we are more than welcome [to include him] – and we need it. But in this moment we have to set some standards. We are waiting for Rashford, if he wants it really bad. "You (the media) want to make it personal, I have nothing against Marcus, but I have to make the same rules for everybody. "We need goals, we need [players who can go] one against one, we need threat in the final third." Rashford train...

Italy Removes DeepSeek AI from Apple, Google Stores

Image
  The Italian authorities removed DeepSeek AI from both Apple’s App Store and Google’s Play Store because of privacy concerns about user data. Users who tried to download the app received system alerts which stated the application was not available in their geographic area.  People who installed the app before the ban can continue using it.  The data protection authority of Italy conducted an investigation about DeepSeek’s data storage and collection methods before implementing the app ban.  According to a  Reuters report , The regulatory body granted DeepSeek AI 20 days to submit full details regarding its data collection activities and storage locations and data sources. The application continues to function in other European Union territories as well as the United Kingdom despite being restricted in Italy.   DeepSeek AI announced its achievement of surpassing ChatGPT in Apple App Store downloads through its Chinese development roots. The swift popul...

Gemini CEO Says No MIT Hires Until Gensler is Removed

Image
  Source:   X Gemini crypto exchange declared it will stop recruiting Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) graduates until the university cuts ties with former SEC chair Gary Gensler as an instructor.  CEO Tyler Winklevoss of Gemini announced on January 30 that the exchange would not participate in its summer internship program and would not recruit MIT graduates until Gensler left his role at MIT. This move comes amid a long-standing dispute between Gemini and the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), dating back to March 2023 when the exchange settled with the SEC over $21 million in fines.  The SEC claimed Gemini’s Earn program, partnered with the now-bankrupt Genesis, involved the sale of unregistered securities. Gensler, who served as SEC chair until January 20, now returns to MIT as a professor.  The SEC took multiple crypto-related enforcement actions during Gensler’s leadership period resulting in widespread criticism from crypto advocate...