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Agbese: Linking Buratai, Matawalle to Terror Financing Is Illogical, Insulting to Nigeria’s Security History

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Tukur Buratai: Soldier. Scholar. Statesman. Symbol of Strategic Leadership By Femi Oyewale

*Agbese: Linking Buratai, Matawalle to Terror Financing Is Illogical, Insulting to Nigeria’s Security History*

 

Hon Philip Agbese, Deputy Spokesperson of the House of Representatives, has dismissed allegations linking former Chief of Army Staff and ex-Ambassador to Benin Republic, Lt-General Tukur Yusuf Buratai (rtd), and the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, to terrorism financing, describing them as “reckless, fabricated and utterly unacceptable”.

Agbese, speaking to journalists in Abuja on Saturday, said the claims were not only false but an orchestrated attempt to malign two men who, according to him, have played pivotal roles in strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture.

He said it was “deeply unfortunate” that individuals who have made significant sacrifices for Nigeria were being targeted with allegations that contradict everything they have stood for throughout their public service careers.

Agbese particularly condemned the attempt to link Buratai to Boko Haram sponsorship, arguing that such claims were both illogical and insulting to Nigeria’s security history under the Buhari administration.

“General Buratai fought Boko Haram terrorists from the front. Anyone who followed Nigeria’s security trajectory from 2015 knows that before the Buhari administration took office, Boko Haram had bombed the Police Headquarters, the United Nations building, Banex Plaza, Nyanya Motor Park, and countless mosques, churches and markets. Entire communities across Borno, Yobe and Adamawa were under the absolute control of the insurgents,” the lawmaker said.

He said Buratai’s leadership as Army Chief led to the recovery of captured territories, stabilisation of the North-East and restoration of confidence across the country.

“Under his command, Boko Haram lost grip of territories they previously occupied. Basic governance returned to towns that had been abandoned for years. Abuja, which had faced repeated deadly bombings, became safe again. The scale of devastation Nigerians experienced between 2009 and 2014 reduced drastically because of his strategic leadership,” Agbese said.

The lawmaker added that Buratai’s efforts were not limited to the North-East, noting that other security threats also reduced significantly under his tenure.

“The de-escalation of violent criminal groups, including IPOB’s militant wing and various armed gangs across the country, was part of the broader national security gains recorded during his service. These were not accidental achievements but outcomes of coordinated security reforms he championed,” he said.

Agbese insisted that attempting to paint such a figure as a terrorism financier was not only contrary to the facts but a “grave injustice” that Nigerians must reject.

“This is a man whose career is defined by integrity, patriotism and sacrifice. To accuse him of supporting the same enemies he spent decades fighting is beyond absurd,” he said.

He said the former Army Chief deserved appreciation, not defamation, for his contributions.

“Buratai’s legacy remains one of honourable service. The Nigerian Army under him confronted terrorism with renewed vigour, and Nigerians today enjoy the safety dividends of those efforts,” he added.

Turning to the charges against Matawalle, Agbese said the allegations were equally baseless and crafted to undermine the minister’s commitment to securing the country.

“As governor of Zamfara State, Matawalle inherited a complex web of criminal gangs and terror groups operating across several parts of the state,” he said.

“Despite limited resources and a deeply entrenched security crisis, he took bold steps, both kinetic and non-kinetic, to weaken these networks, dismantle their logistics, and restore hope to citizens who had been completely abandoned.”

Agbese said Matawalle worked closely with security agencies, strengthened community-level intelligence structures, and pushed for federal collaboration long before assuming office as minister.

“Anyone familiar with the dynamics in Zamfara at the time knows the extent of the crisis he confronted. The suggestion that he supported these groups is false and malicious,” he said.

The deputy spokesperson urged Nigerians to disregard what he described as “sponsored propaganda designed to distract the public from ongoing reforms in the defence sector”.

The legislator warned that attempts to demoralise serving and retired security leaders would only embolden criminal elements and undermine national stability.

“Nigeria must never reward service with slander. We cannot allow individuals who risk their lives for this country to be casually defamed for clicks and traffic,” he said.

Agbese called on those behind the allegations to retract them and desist from further attempts to mislead the public.

“Nigerians stand firmly with Buratai and Matawalle. Their records speak for them. No amount of blackmail will erase their contributions to national security,” he added.

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Powerful dignitaries, high net worth personalities storm Omorede Osifo’s diamond jubilee celebration in Marbella Spain

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Powerful dignitaries, high net worth personalities storm Omorede Osifo’s diamond jubilee celebration in Marbella Spain

.. How she has attained so much professional, political heights at 60 

 

 

The beautiful city of Marbella in Spain was thrown into a colorful and electrifying mood when one of Nigeria’s most celebrated, iconic political Lionesses, the debonair banker turned politician, Lady Omorede Osifo was serenaded with a sumptuous and deluxe 60th birthday gig.

 

The dynamic political empress and symbol of selfless service to humanity who served diligently and faithfully as the honourable Commissioner for Youth and Sports in Edo State was flabbergasted by the amazing love shown to her by friends, family and well-wishers who thronged the alluringly beautiful hall to give her an indelible birthday celebration. The event tagged @omorede_osifo is now the talk of town as high networth dignitaries, celebrities from all walks of life and different parts of the world all made their presence significant for the celebrant to ruminate over in many years to come.

 

Lady Omorede Osifo is a quintessential democrat who committed much of her time and energy in serving the people. The birthday babe whose special day fell on 8th of May has come, saw and conquered in the so-called murky waters of Nigerian politics. She served perfectly as State Commissioner, Deputy National Treasurer of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC),

Special Adviser on Women Mobilization in Edo State and as a distinguished representative of her people.

 

As the celebration of the 60th birthday of this lady of glam, glitz and panache unfolded, it became clear that this gathering was not just a personal milestone for Hon. Lady Omorede Osifo but also a reaffirmation of commitment among political leaders to work together. The convergence of these key figures in the political arena serves as a reminder of the potential for collaborative efforts to foster progress and uplift the community.

 

Her birthday celebration was a testament to the strength of unity in political engagement, highlighting the significance of personal connections in the realm of governance.

 

As Hon. Lady Omorede Osifo embarks on another year, the expressions of support and solidarity from her fellow dignitaries promise a future filled with collaborative achievements and shared goals for the betterment of their constituents.

 

Hon. Lady Omorede Osifo is a fantastic leader who wants the best for her people. She is personally committed to the transformation of women and two girl child in Edo State and she has also been at the top echelon of her political party, the APC with her selfless efforts recognized and appreciated by His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR as well as her superb democratic contributions to the growth and development of Edo State under the leadership of His Excellency Governor Monday Okpebholo who has overtime shown appreciation to her for being a dedicated and patriotic loyal daughter of Edo State. Even the Oba of Benin Kingdom bestowed on her the Prestigious Royal Beads which is given to Chiefs in recognition of her deep passion for the historical city of Benin.

 

This year, all road led to the serene city of Marbella, Spain for the celebration of her 60th birthday and a opportunity for her to appreciate her Creator, the Almighty God as well as every single individual that has played significant roles in her life.

 

Attaining the diamond age of 60 is never a child’s play, it’s a moment of sober reflection and commendation to God. We at Black Celebrity Magazine wish the indefatigable and indomitable Hon. Lady Omorede Osifo a very happy 60th birthday and many more years to live in perfect health and more success.

 

Powerful dignitaries, high net worth personalities storm Omorede Osifo's diamond jubilee celebration in Marbella Spain

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Confusion, Panic As Reports Of Alexx Ekubo’s Death Rock Nollywood

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Confusion, Panic As Reports Of Alexx Ekubo’s Death Rock Nollywood

 

The Nigerian entertainment industry was thrown into confusion and panic on Tuesday following viral reports alleging that popular Nollywood actor, Alexx Ekubo, had died at the age of 40.

 

 

The shocking claim, which spread rapidly across social media platforms and blogs, alleged that the actor died in Lagos after battling undisclosed health complications, sparking an outpouring of grief from stunned fans and colleagues.

 

 

As the rumours gained momentum online, several actors, movie producers and entertainment enthusiasts flooded Instagram and X with emotional reactions, describing the development as “heartbreaking,” “unbelievable” and “a dark day for Nollywood.”

 

 

Actor Godwin Nnadiekwe was among those who reacted emotionally, reportedly lamenting that the industry had lost “a rare soul” whose charisma and talent helped shape modern Nollywood.

 

 

Alexx Ekubo, widely admired for his stylish persona, romanti movie roles and strong social media influence, rose to prominence after emerging first runner-up at the 2010 Mr Nigeria competition before becoming one of Nollywood’s most sought-after actors.

 

 

The development also reignited conversations surrounding the actor’s prolonged absence from social media in recent months, which had earlier triggered concern among fans over his wellbeing.
Despite the widespread reports, confusion continued to trail the story as no official statement had been issued by the actor’s family, management or close associates confirming the alleged death as of press time.

 

 

The uncertainty surrounding the reports further fueled tension online, with many Nigerians demanding clarity while others urged the public against spreading unverified information.

 

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JOY AS SHEBABY SPARKS PREGNANCY SPECULATION YEARS AFTER MARRIAGE

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JOY AS SHEBABY SPARKS PREGNANCY SPECULATION YEARS AFTER MARRIAGE

 

Popular Nigerian actress, singer and dancer, Seyi Ariyo, popularly known as Shebaby, has stirred reactions on social media following speculations that she is expecting a child years after getting married.

 

The development has generated excitement among fans and colleagues, especially on Instagram where many have continued to flood her page with congratulatory messages and prayers.

 

While some admirers celebrated the actress and prayed that her joy would be permanent, others pointed to a viral video currently making rounds online, where several entertainers, among them Oyita, a close friend, Tawa Ajisefinni, Seyi Ẹdun, Bukky Fagbuyi, and a host of others including Olú Maintain, were seen rejoicing and congratulating her.

 

Although Shebaby is already a mother with a grown daughter, the latest development has continued to attract attention within the entertainment industry and among her followers.

 

Before now, the London-based entertainer had built a strong reputation for herself in both music and acting. She has released several songs and also worked alongside notable Fuji star Wasiu Alabi Pasuma and other respected entertainers in the industry.

 

In the movie sector, Shebaby is also regarded as a household name. Sources close to the actress revealed that she is currently working on a new project titled Father Forgive Me.

 

Fans and colleagues have continued to pray for the actress, wishing her safe delivery and more happiness in her home.

 

#Shebaby #SeyiAriyo #EntertainmentNews #Nollywood #Pasuma #Olumaintain #CelebrityNews

JOY AS SHEBABY SPARKS PREGNANCY SPECULATION YEARS AFTER MARRIAGE

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