celebrity radar - gossips

Five Expatriates Kidnapped In Calabar, Driver Killed

Published

9 years ago

June 23, 2016

According to reports, at least five expatriates and two Nigerians were on Wednesday kidnapped at the Idundu area of the Calabar-Oban Road by suspected militants.

The incident happened at about 6am when the foreigners and their Nigerian colleagues, working for MacMahon Construction Company, were on their way to work.

The construction firm is located at the Mfamosing Plant of the United Cement Company of Nigeria Limited in the Akamkpa Local Government Area of Cross River State.

The company is said to be one of the major contracting firms to Lafarge Holcim, owners of UniCem.

The workers, who were conveyed in four MacMahon vehicles, had been escorted by a security pickup that had four armed policemen when they were attacked by the gunmen before the Idundu Bridge.

The armed police escort team could do nothing while the attack lasted.

One of the expatriates identified as Tim Croot, an Australian and the driver of one of the vehicles, identified as Henshaw, were said to have escaped, while another driver, Matthew, was killed in the process.

PUNCH Metro learnt from a reliable source that those kidnapped were Jack Countentz (Australia); Mark Gabberdy (Australia); Peter Zoutenbier (Australia), Wayne Smith (South Africa), Jamal Khan (New Zealand), Austin Enok (Nigeria) and a driver identified as Howel (Nigeria).

An eyewitness, Akan Akpan, said the kidnappers came down from the bridge where they had kept their boat’s engine running for almost an hour before taking the expatriates and the Nigerians away.

He said, “I was coming back from the farm this morning when the incident occurred. The kidnappers came down from the bridge, shot the driver of the vehicle and took the victims away through the river.

“The vehicles conveying the expatriates and the two Nigerians were abandoned by the roadside with the dead body of the driver. From all indications, it appeared like the expatriates were going to work at the Lafarge Holcim plant in Mfamosing.”

A statement issued by the Communications Officer of Lafarge, Viola Graham-Douglas, confirmed that the kidnapped expatriates were MacMahon contractors.

In a short message, Graham-Douglas said, “One of our contractors, MacMahon, has informed us that a security incident has occurred on the road from Calabar involving some of their employees. MacMahon is working with the security agencies to resolve the situation.”

Meanwhile, the state Commissioner of Police, Mr. Jimoh Ozi-Obeh, has said the police are working with the Nigerian Navy to ensure that the victims are released safely.

“The police are aware of the matter. Five persons were kidnapped. They include two Australians, one South African and two Nigerians. The driver of the vehicle was shot dead. The police will ensure that the victims are released unharmed,” he assured.
Source: Punch

Sports

Oleksandr Usyk Defeats Tyson Fury Again, Solidifies Legacy Among Boxing Greats

Published

1 day ago

December 22, 2024

Sahara Weekly

Oleksandr Usyk Defeats Tyson Fury Again, Solidifies Legacy Among Boxing Greats

Ukrainian boxing sensation Oleksandr Usyk retained his heavyweight championship titles and cemented his place in boxing history with a unanimous decision victory over Britain’s Tyson Fury in their rematch on Saturday night.

The judges scored the bout 116-112 in Usyk’s favor across the board, marking his second consecutive win over Fury. This victory extended Usyk’s flawless professional record to 23-0, with 14 knockouts, adding another chapter to a career already highlighted by Olympic gold and an undisputed cruiserweight championship.

A Masterclass Performance

Usyk, 37, showcased his signature precision and relentless pace, repeatedly catching Fury with clean left hooks and dominating the latter stages of the fight. Fury, at 6ft 9in (206cm) and weighing a career-high 281 pounds, attempted to impose his physicality but was unable to break Usyk’s composure.

The fight, held in Saudi Arabia, saw Usyk wearing traditional Cossack attire during his entrance, while Fury entered the arena dressed in a festive Santa-inspired robe to Mariah Carey’s “All I Want For Christmas Is You.”

The early rounds were competitive, with Fury landing powerful jabs and body shots. However, Usyk’s endurance and tactical brilliance began to shine in the middle rounds. The Ukrainian landed sharp combinations and dictated the tempo, including a stunning uppercut in the final round that left little doubt about the outcome.

“I thought I’ve won both fights,” Fury said post-match, sporting a bruised right eye. “But I’ll always believe until the day I die that I won that fight.”

A Legacy Sealed

Usyk’s victory solidified his standing as one of the greatest heavyweights in history. Already the first undisputed heavyweight of the four-belt era, Usyk joins the ranks of legends like Muhammad Ali, Joe Louis, and Mike Tyson.

The bout, reported to have a prize purse of $190 million, also underscored Saudi Arabia’s growing influence in global sports. Usyk, who served briefly as a soldier during Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, celebrated his victory by hoisting a symbolic sabre belonging to Ukrainian nationalist hero Ivan Mazepa.

Fury’s Uncertain Future

The defeat leaves Fury’s future in doubt. Once unbeaten across 35 fights, Fury now stands at 34-2-1. His attempt to reclaim glory after a brief retirement in 2022 has been marred by back-to-back losses to Usyk.

Usyk, on the other hand, continues to add to his already remarkable resume, leaving fans and critics alike in awe of his technical skill, resilience, and determination. As the heavyweight division looks ahead, Usyk’s reign appears unshakable, and his place among boxing’s all-time greats is firmly secured.

celebrity radar - gossips

Testimony Jaga Redefines Gospel Music with Fuji Rhapsody

Published

2 days ago

December 21, 2024

Sahara Weekly

Testimony Jaga Redefines Gospel Music with Fuji Rhapsody

Renowned gospel artist Testimony Jaga has set a new standard in the genre with the release of his highly anticipated album, Fuji Rhapsody. This innovative project masterfully blends the electrifying rhythms of Fuji music with uplifting gospel messages, offering a unique and transformative musical experience.

With a runtime of approximately one hour, Fuji Rhapsody takes listeners on a continuous, spiritually enriching journey, brimming with energy and inspiration. The album is available for streaming on popular platforms, including Spotify, iTunes, Audiomack, Boomplay, and more.

Whether you’re a fan of vibrant Fuji beats or seeking soul-stirring gospel tunes, Fuji Rhapsody is an album that promises to inspire and uplift. Press play and let its powerful melodies rejuvenate your spirit today!

Stream Fuji Rhapsody Here:

https://hypeddit.com/testimony-jaga/fuji-rapsody

celebrity radar - gossips

Governor Monday Okpebholo C.O.N Celebrates His Grace, Bishop Desmond Osazuwa, on His Birthday – December 21

Published

2 days ago

December 20, 2024

Sahara Weekly

His Excellency Governor Monday Okpebholo C.O.N Celebrates His Grace, Bishop Desmond Osazuwa, on His Birthday – December 21

The Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo C.O.N., has extended warm birthday wishes to His Grace, Bishop Desmond Osazuwa Amasihohu, in recognition of his remarkable contributions to the state and his unwavering support during the Governor’s electoral victory.

In a heartfelt message, Governor Okpebholo expressed his profound admiration for Bishop Amasihohu, acknowledging his steadfast leadership, spiritual guidance, and commitment to the well-being of the people of Edo State.

“I am delighted to celebrate Bishop Desmond Osazuwa on his special day,” the Governor stated. “His tireless prayers and invaluable support during my election campaign played a significant role in our collective success. His dedication to the spiritual and physical growth of Edo State is a testament to his purposeful leadership and unwavering faith.”

Reflecting on the Bishop’s years of service, the Governor added, “On behalf of my family and the entire Edo State, I extend my heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to Bishop Desmond Amasihohu on his birthday. He is a true son of Edo, whose contributions continue to enrich our lives. Today, we celebrate not just his birthday but also his enduring impact on our state and beyond.”

Governor Okpebholo emphasized the importance of honoring individuals who dedicate their lives to service. “Recognizing Bishop Desmond Osazuwa aligns with our shared values of inclusivity, unity, and gratitude. His contributions to the spiritual and social fabric of Edo State are invaluable, and we are truly blessed to have him among us.”

Bishop Desmond Osazuwa Amasihohu has spent decades spreading the gospel and transforming lives both within Edo State and across the globe. His birthday celebration drew dignitaries, community leaders, and well-wishers who gathered to honor his life and legacy.

The occasion stands as a powerful reminder of the values of faith, service, and unity that guide the Governor’s vision for a stronger Edo State.

“Happy birthday, my Bishop,” Governor Okpebholo concluded. “Your wisdom and contributions to the development of our state are deeply appreciated. May the Lord Almighty bless you with good health, strength, and continued prosperity.”