celebrity radar - gossips

M0RE TROUBLE FOR STELLA ODUAH AS COURT ORDERS FIRST BANK TO DISCLOSE DETAILS OF CAR PURCHASED

Published

10 years ago

June 17, 2015

A FEDERAL High Court in Lagos yesterday ordered First Bank of Nigeria Plc to disclose details of the loan facility it granted the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) for the 2013 purchase of two bullet-proof BMW cars for the then Aviation Minister, Stella Oduah.

According to a statement, Justice Mohammed Yunusa issued the order while delivering judgment in a suit instituted by Enough is Enough (EIE) Nigeria, a non-governmental organization, against the bank over its refusal to disclose the information to the organization following an application it made under the Freedom of Information Act on October 30, 2013.

The judgment is EIE’s second judicial victory in the matter as it obtained a similar order in March 2015 directing Coscharis Motors Limited to disclose details of the transaction. A third suit instituted by EIE against the NCAA is pending.

In the suit filed on behalf of EIE on January 9, 2014 by Mr. Ayodeji Acquah of Media Rights Agenda’s Network of Freedom of Information Lawyers, the group prayed the court for the following reliefs:

A declaration that the failure and/or refusal of the bank to grant access to or make available to EIE the information it requested in its letter dated October 30, 2013 amounts to wrongful denial of access to information under Section 7(5) of the FOI Act; and

A declaration that the failure and/or refusal by the bank to give EIE a written notice that access to all or part of the information requested would not be granted and stating reasons for the denial and the section of the FOI Act upon which the bank relied to deny EIE access to the information it requested amounts to a flagrant violation of Section 4(b), 7(1), (2), and (3) of the FOI Act and is therefore wrongful;

The group also prayed the court for an order of mandamus compelling the bank to grant access to or make available to EIE the information it requested in its letter dated October 30, 2013, namely:
• The credit application file the bank provided for the loan facility of N836,970,156 for the purchase of two bullet proof BMW 760 Ll HSS vehicles for the NCAA from Coscharis Motors with the followingdetails:
original documents including pro-forma invoice(s) from the supplier, request letter from NCAA and insurance certificate for the assets (the BMW vehicles);
(ii.) rationale for approval including the credit application (or an acceptable alternative) originating the request and details of the approving authority; and
offer letter to NCAA stating the terms and conditions of the loan facility.
sought an order of mandamus compelling the Attorney-General of the Federation to initiate criminal proceedings against the bank for wrongful denial of access to information to EIE under Section 7(5) of the FOI Act. b) The loan account statement reflecting the two payments already made as stated during the testimony of Mr. Joyce D. Nkemakolam, the Director of the Aerodrome and Airspace Standards and former Acting Director General of NCAA.

Although the bank was said to have claimed at the hearing of the suit that as a private company, it is not covered by the FOI Act, Justice Yunusa noted that the bank did not deny EIE’s claim that it (the bank) collects levies and taxes on behalf of various governments and government institutions and is therefore a private company performing public functions within the meaning of the Act. The judge held that going by the provisions of Sections 2(7) and 31 of the FOI Act, the bank is covered by the Act.

Justice Yunusa ruled that Sections 1(3) and 20 of the FOI Act give EIE the right to apply to the court to compel the bank to disclose the information that it applied for but which was denied, observing that the bank did not give any reason for its refusal to disclose the information requested by the organization

Sports

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

Published

8 hours 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

19 hours 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.”