celebrity radar - gossips
#ENDSARS: Dapo Abiodun Closes School, bans Okada, others…. Read Full Text
STATE OF THE STATE ADDRESS BY THE GOVERNOR OF OGUN STATE,
HIS EXCELLENCY, PRINCE DAPO ABIODUN MFR, ON THE #ENDSARS PROTEST, ON TUESDAY, 20TH OCTOBER, 2020.
Fellow citizens of Ogun State,
It has become necessary for me to address you once again on an issue of public interest. It has been 13 days now that our dear State and indeed the entire Nigerian Nation have been rocked with protests and agitations leading to disruption in the daily socio-economic lives of our people.
2.In what started as a trending social media campaign, #ENDSARS, thousands of our youths have taken to the streets to express displeasure with the activities of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) unit of the Nigeria Police Force. Of specific concern were alleged brutality, high-handedness and professional misconduct of some officers of the now defunct Police Unit.
3.At some point, 31 of our youths were arrested in Ogun State by the Police during the protest. As a responsible and responsive administration, I quickly ordered the Commissioner of Police to facilitate their release and also instructed the Attorney General to drop charges against those arraigned for alleged vandalisation of public properties. In addition, some hitherto unreported arrests were brought to my attention and again, I ordered that they be immediately released.
- I have personally received some of the protesters including youth, students and other stakeholders and addressed them on the legitimacy of their peaceful protest and assured them of the preparedness and commitment of our Government to their safety, welfare and wellbeing.
5.It shows that our youth are taking more than a passing interest on matters affecting them. In fact, in the country of over 200 Million, with over 60 percent of that population as youth, we do not expect anything less than their active participation in our development process. On the other hand, it also manifests the responsiveness of the government, at various levels, to listen to the citizens to and address the demands of the people. The #EndSARS agitation, carefully managed, cultivated and nurtured, may yet provide a template for engagement between the government and the citizenry. Therefore, I want to commend the people of Ogun State, especially our youth, for the peaceful approach at expressing their grievances.
6.A five-point demand was made by our youth in relation to the #EndSARS phenomenon as follows:
i. immediate release of all arrested protesters;
ii. justice to all deceased victims of police brutality and appropriate compensation for their families;
iii. setting up an independent body to oversee the investigation and prosecution of all reports of police misconduct (within ten days);
iv. In line with the Police Act, psychological evaluation and retraining (to be confirmed by an independent body) of all disbanded SARS officers before they can be redeployed;
v. Increase police salary so that they are adequately compensated for protecting lives and property of citizens.
All actions arising from the 5-point demand and instructions from NEC are being implemented by the State diligently.
7.In response to these demands, following actions were taken:
• As mentioned earlier, all those arrested in Ogun State in connection with the protest have been released. Indeed, there is no one in detention in whatever form in the State, thus effectively addressing the first of the demand.
• Furthermore, the SARS unit of the Police, the central object of the protest, has been disbanded, even ahead of the demand for that by the protesters. And it is important to emphasise that unlike on previous occasions when SARS was purportedly banned, the final nail on the coffin of the ban on SARS was pronounced by no less a person than President and Commander-in-Chief, President Muhammadu Buhari.
• The National Economic Council (NEC) convened an emergency meeting on Thursday 15th October with the issue of #EndSARS protest as the main agenda. The meeting agreed on five main points, amongst others, which are:
✓ Each State Governor to take charge of interaction with the protesters in the respective state
✓ Setting up of Judicial Panel of Inquiry to investigate all cases of abuse in the state with a view to bring erring security agents to books and compensating the victims
✓ Setting up of funds to compensate the victims
✓ Setting up of Special Security and Human Rights Committee
✓ Setting up of a Human Rights Complaint office with an Ombudsman.
• Ogun State has fully implemented these resolutions with dispatch.
• Apart from these nationally agreed initiatives, Ogun State went some steps further by announcing other initiatives, including the development of Human Rights Complaints Report portal to make it easy for citizens to report cases on rights abuses by security agencies with facility to upload audio/video and documentary evidence. Others are the establishment of a forensic Laboratory for the police to aid in their investigation and intelligence gathering, and investment in training of the police officers to make them more professional and effective.
8.However, despite all the engagements and practicaldemonstration of government commitment to addressing the demands of the protesters, youth and various pleas to bring an end to the agitation, particularly since most of the issues have been addressed, the protest has since escalated into another dimension, which we have seen:
✓ violence and manifest descent into anarchy
✓ burning of police stations
✓ vandalization of public properties
✓ disruption of vehicular movements on major highways, leading to traffic gridlocks
✓ deployment of okada to transport hoodlums
✓ extortion of members of the public at illegal barricades erected at public spaces
✓ sometimes last week, a vehicle belonging to a top Government functionary was attacked and vandalised
✓ and very sadly, a custom officer was killed earlier today (Tuesday) by a mob on okadas in one of our border towns
The incidents in our state are not isolated cases, indeed the there are worse and gory reports of disturbing developments in other states across the country, including jail breaks and loss of lives and properties.
9.Earlier today, I held a meeting with security chiefs in the state. After an assessment of the prevailing situation, particularly emergingthreats to public safety and security, as a responsible Administration, we considered a number of options, including imposing a curfew on the state. However, in line with our focused, deliberate and measured approach, we are adopting the following measures in the meantime:
✓ All schools are closed till Monday, 26th October, 2020
✓ Operation of commercial motorcycle, popularly called okada, is suspended across the state for tomorrow, Wednesday, 21st October, in the first instance
✓ Increased security around the correctional centres and public buildings
✓ Blockade of highways and molestation of innocent citizensgoing about their lawful business by protesters will no longer be tolerated
✓ Deployment of joint patrol teams of security agencies to ensure no threat to public security
Once again, we are hereby requesting the youth groups to appoint leaders amongst themselves for a meeting with the governor for further dialogue.
We will be reviewing developments on a 24-hourly basis and will not hesitate to announce stringent measures as may be considered necessary.
I must emphasise that we cannot fold our arms and let the state descend into anarchy. No right is absolute. In exercising our rights, we must respect the rights of others. There cannot be a better tomorrow, if we destroy today and the foundation being laid for tomorrow. Let me warn that Ogun State will not be conducive to anyone who may want to test the resolve of government to provide security or those who may want to come from other states to foment trouble in our dear State. The security agencies have been directed to ensure full compliance with the measures announced to ensure security of lives and properties.
10.Therefore, I appeal to all parents, guardians, traditional and religious leaders and indeed all stakeholders to rein their children and wards to avoid any act that may breach public peace or bring them into confrontation with the law enforcement agencies. I urge all to take full advantage of the windows available to express grievances in peaceful manners, including the Ogun State Human Rights Complaints Report portal and allow time for full implementation of the various government initiatives in response to their demands.
11.We must continue to be on eagle alert so that some unscrupulous element who do not have the love of this Nation at heart; who do not share the same development ideals; who may want to take advantage of this situation for their selfish motives, to hijack the process. Our nation can ill-afford such a scenario. I have no doubt that, together, we can build a stronger, united and prosperous nation that works for all.
12.I thank you for listening and God bless.
“Igbega Ipinle Ogun, ajose gbogbo wa ni o!”
Prince Dapo Abiodun, MFR
Governor of Ogun State, Nigeria
Tuesday, 20th October, 2020.
FACT CHECK: Viral “Trump Post” Blasting Tinubu Over Maiduguri Bombings is Fake
LAGOS — A viral image circulating on social media, purportedly showing a post by former U.S. President Donald Trump criticizing Nigeria’s President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has been confirmed as false and digitally manipulated.
https://www.stanbicibtcbank.com/nigeriabank/personal/products-and-services/all-loans/stanbic-ibtc-mreif-home-loans
The image, which appeared online late Monday, March 16, 2026, claimed to be a post from Trump’s Truth Social account reacting to a deadly wave of bombings in Maiduguri. While the attacks themselves are real, the alleged international rebuke is entirely fabricated.
Hoax Exposed
The fake post alleged that Trump described Nigeria’s situation as a “TOTAL DISASTER” and criticized Tinubu for being on a “State Visit” to the United Kingdom during a supposed “STATE OF NATIONAL EMERGENCY.”
However, multiple inconsistencies quickly exposed the claim:
Timeline Discrepancy: The post referenced events occurring while Tinubu was already abroad. In reality, the President only departed Abuja for London on Tuesday, March 17—hours after the image began trending.
Design Errors: Analysts identified a suspicious “whitehouse.gov” button embedded in the image—an element not present on the Truth Social platform.
No Verifiable Source: A thorough review of Trump’s official social media accounts and global media reports shows no record of such a statement.
Tinubu’s UK Visit Continues
Despite the security situation at home, the Presidency has confirmed that Tinubu’s scheduled state visit to the United Kingdom will proceed.
The Nigerian leader is expected to be received by King Charles III at Windsor Castle on Wednesday, March 18. The visit marks a notable diplomatic engagement between Nigeria and the UK.
The widely shared “Trump post” is a deliberate misinformation attempt, exploiting a real national tragedy to spread false political narratives. Authorities and media observers continue to urge the public to verify information before sharing.
TO MY BROTHER BOBBY DEE by Chief Femi Fani-Kayode
For my brother Bobby Dee (Chief Dele Momodu) to compare President Tinubu to General Sani Abacha and claim that he is a dictator suggests that he is suffering from a degenerating and worrisome level of cognitive dissonance.
I love Dele and God knows I have immense respect for him but he sounded drained, tired and broken and spoke little sense yesterday in his interview with Seun Okinbaloye of Channels TV.
May I humbly suggest to him to try and take a break from politics and political commentary for a while, get his breath back and attempt to overhaul his intellectual engine?
Not only was he uncharitable and disrespectful to the President, the Vice President, the Ministers, the Senators and the newly-appointed Ambassadors, many of whom have far more experience than him in governance and Government, on that programme but he also insulted the collective intelligence of the Nigerian people.
He and his associates in the ADC should focus more on trying to build up their depleted ranks and form a strong opposition that we can look forward to engaging in the field of battle for the 2027 election rather than continously obsesse and talk about what our President and our party is doing.
The ADC cannot even be described as a sinking ship but rather as a badly patched up inflatable plastic life boat that has not even managed to find its bearing or leave the harbour.
It has no engine, no sails, no oars, no captain, no crew, no navigational equipment, no muscle, no firepower, no war chest, no destination and worse of all it is made of rubber and not steel.
How can such an ill-prepared contraption even float let alone do battle?
It cannot possibly survive the rough seas and harsh winds of Nigerian politics because it lacks gravitas, focus, character, intelligence, discipline and strength.
It needs to be built up, better schooled, better trained, better equipped, better educated and better prepared before it can enter the field and before we can even begin to regard it as an opposition party.
Right now it can only be described as a haven and pitiful gathering of vacuous, shallow, intellectual frauds and political renegades who lack foresight and who have no direction.
The fact that they have failed to take off is not Tinubu’s fault, it is theirs.
The fact that political leaders and the Nigerian people are flocking to APC in droves is not only because our President and Vice President are doing well but also because they view the ADC as nothing but a collection of disingenious, desperate and recycled political losers, who are addicted to power, who offer no credible alternative to governance and who, like the three blind mice, are running around in circles, chasing each other’s long, mangy and wrinkled tails with no where to go.
Watching my brother Dele trying to speak for them is pitiful and is even more disconcerting than his assertion that Tinubu will regret his decisions and will be deserted by everyone around him.
The Bible says “who is he that sayeth a thing and it cometh to pass when the Lord God of Hosts has commanded it not?”
Dele should listen to the Holy Spirit instead of to the pagan murmurings, strange whispers, demonic divinations and conjuring projections of the Prophets of Baal and the Witch of Endor.
To be sure Tinubu started well, he is doing well and he will, by the grace of God, end well with no regrets in 2031.
Anything short of that is the counsel of the ungodly and the manifestation and delusions of a diseased and demonised mind.
I appeal to my brother Dele: leave the ranks of the forces of darkness and join us.
You are far too good for the company you are keep.
Your presence in the ranks of the ADC is like that of a gentle, beautiful, well bred, well fed and well manicured flamingo trapped in a sea of ugly, cruel, loud, angry, starving, cackling and relentless crows and vultures.
It does not befit you.
(Chief Femi Fani-Kayode, the author of this essay) is an Ambassador Designate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, a former Minister of Aviation, a former Minister of Culture and Tourism, the Sadaukin Shinkafi, the Wakilin Doka Potiskum, the Otunba of Joga Orile, the Aare Ajagunle of Otun Ekiti and a Legal Practioner)
celebrity radar - gossips
Media Respect and Celebrity Responsibility: Lessons from Tiwa Savage Foundation Launch Controversy
Media Respect and Celebrity Responsibility: Lessons from Tiwa Savage Foundation Launch Controversy
By George Omagbemi Sylvester
“Apology from Tiwa Savage’s Team Sparks Debate on Media Treatment, Professional Ethics, and the Role of Journalists in Promoting Cultural and Philanthropic Initiatives.”
Nigerian music icon Tiwa Savage and her management team have issued a formal apology to journalists following allegations of mistreatment during the launch of the Tiwa Savage Music Foundation in Lagos. The controversy, which quickly sparked debate across the media landscape, has raised broader questions about celebrity culture, media ethics, and the professional respect owed to journalists covering high-profile events.
The apology was conveyed through Savage’s manager, Vanessa Amadi-Ogbonna, alongside representatives of the public relations firm Fola PR and management of The Delborough Lagos, the venue where the event took place. According to reports, the foundation launch was held on March 9, 2026, at Victoria Island in Lagos, Nigeria’s commercial capital.
Several journalists invited to cover the event complained that they were delayed for hours at the entrance of the venue, asked to wait under uncomfortable conditions, and allegedly instructed to wear branded polo shirts before being allowed entry. Many media professionals described the treatment as humiliating and disrespectful to the role of the press in promoting public events.
Following public criticism, representatives of Savage’s team clarified that the singer neither authorised nor condoned the alleged treatment. They expressed regret over the incident and promised improved coordination with journalists in future engagements.
The controversy has reignited conversations about the delicate relationship between celebrities and the media. Scholars in media and communication studies argue that the press plays a vital role in shaping public narratives and promoting cultural activities, including entertainment and philanthropy.
Renowned media scholar Denis McQuail once observed that “the media serve as the central arena where social and cultural life is debated, interpreted, and understood.” In this context, journalists covering events such as the launch of a charitable foundation are not merely observers but important partners in amplifying the message and purpose of such initiatives.
Similarly, Nigerian communication scholar Ralph Akinfeleye has repeatedly emphasised the importance of professional respect for journalists. According to him, “the media are not beggars of access; they are stakeholders in the democratic and cultural process.” His argument highlights the fact that journalists provide visibility and legitimacy to events, especially those tied to public figures and philanthropic causes.
The Tiwa Savage Music Foundation was launched with the stated aim of empowering young talents in the music industry through mentorship, education, and professional opportunities. Many observers believe the initiative could play a significant role in nurturing emerging artists across Nigeria and the African continent.
However, communication experts stress that the success of such initiatives often depends on strong relationships with the media. American communication scholar Marshall McLuhan famously noted that “the medium is the message,” suggesting that the way information is delivered can influence how the public perceives the message itself.
In the case of the foundation launch, critics argue that the controversy surrounding the treatment of journalists briefly overshadowed the noble objectives of the project. Instead of focusing on the foundation’s mission, public discourse shifted toward questions of respect, professionalism, and media relations.
Public relations specialists also view the episode as a lesson in event management and stakeholder engagement. Effective public relations practice requires careful coordination between organisers, venue managers, and media representatives to ensure that invited journalists are treated with dignity and professionalism.
Despite the controversy, many journalists welcomed the apology and expressed hope that it would strengthen future collaboration between the entertainment industry and the press. In Nigeria’s vibrant media ecosystem, such partnerships remain essential for promoting cultural initiatives and amplifying stories that inspire the next generation of creatives.
Ultimately, the incident surrounding the Tiwa Savage Music Foundation launch serves as a reminder that respect for the media is not merely a matter of courtesy but a cornerstone of responsible public engagement. As scholars and industry observers continue to emphasise, the relationship between celebrities and journalists must be built on mutual respect, professionalism, and shared commitment to informing and inspiring the public.
-
society6 months agoReligion: Africa’s Oldest Weapon of Enslavement and the Forgotten Truth
-
news3 months agoWHO REALLY OWNS MONIEPOINT? The $290 Million Deal That Sold Nigeria’s Top Fintech to Foreign Interests
-
society6 months ago“You Are Never Without Help” – Pastor Gebhardt Berndt Inspires Hope Through Empower Church (Video)
-
society7 months agoWho is Chief Kestin Pondi? Niger Delta’s “People’s Chief” Winning Hearts With Hundreds of Millions in Generosity