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Bank Robber Turned Politician Named As Sports Minister

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Bank Robber Turned Politician Named As Sports Minister

 

Bank Robber Turned Politician Named As Sports Minister

 

 

A former gangster and bank robber who turned into a nightclub owner and opposition politician, Gayton McKenzie has now risen to become South Africa’s minister of sports, arts and culture.

 

President Cyril Ramaphosa appointed Mr McKenzie – the leader of the Patriotic Alliance party (PA) – to the portfolio in the multi-party government that he announced on Sunday after his African National Congress (ANC) lost its parliamentary majority in the 29 May election.

A prolific tweeter, the 50-year-old relished his appointment, posting a photo of himself putting on football boots and, with a touch of humour, typed: “Thank you for all the well wishing messages, I will reply shortly I’m just busy getting ready, I have work to do”.

At his swearing in ceremony three days later, Mr McKenzie had his audience, including Mr Ramaphosa, laughing when, in response to the chief justice asking him to be seated, he quipped: “The last time a judge asked me to sit, he made me sit for 10 years.”

Watch here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_9NoopkUTW8?si=O2Mx9HMYHuN2bFgO

For Mr McKenzie’s admirers, his appointment is the latest sign of how he overcame adversity to achieve success. He robbed his first bank before he turned 16, then became, as he put in an interview with a local radio station, a fully fledged gangster, spent seven years in prison, and vowed to change after his early release.

“I might have had 12 rand ($0.65; £0.50) in my pocket but I had billion rand in my mind. And that is what people do not understand – they concentrate on what they lack instead of how to get what they lack,” he said in a 2013 interview with public broadcaster SABC.

He became a highly paid motivational speaker, got books about his life published, including A Hustler’s Bible, and ventured into various businesses – from mining in Zimbabwe to nightclubs in South Africa – with Kenny Kunene, his soulmate from prison.

These days, he is better known as a politician, having launched the PA in 2013, with Mr Kunene as his deputy.

More than a decade later, the party gained 2% of the national vote and fared better in elections for the provincial government in the Western Cape, getting 8%.

Political analyst Kagiso Pooe told the BBC that Mr McKenzie had a “bravado” style, which appeals to his constituency.

“People want to believe and see someone that comes from their type of background and isn’t shy to say: ‘This is who I am.’ You see it with people like President Zuma, President Trump and other such personalities,” he said.

ANTI-IMMIGRATION

Mr McKenzie’s campaign against undocumented migrants was a vote-winner for him, the analyst added.

“Unfortunately, mainstream politicians and parties have shied away from this and he tackles it directly.”

Critics denounced his campaign as xenophobic. He waged it under the slogan “Abahambe”, which he has translated from the Zulu as “Let them go” – and, in a publicity stunt, he visited the border with Zimbabwe to chase away people trying to enter South Africa.

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Buratai Lauds Emir of Biu for Bestowing ‘Sarkin Yaki’ Title on Gen Bulama Biu mini (Rtd)

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Buratai Lauds Emir of Biu for Bestowing ‘Sarkin Yaki’ Title on Gen Bulama Biu mini (Rtd)

His Royal Highness, Alhaji (Dr) Mustapha Umar Mustapha Aliyu II, CON, the Emir of Biu, has conferred the prestigious traditional title of ‘Sarkin Yaki Biu Emirate’ on Major General Bulama Biu mni (Rtd) in recognition of his immense contributions to security and peace in Borno State and Nigeria at large.

The Emir described General Bulama Biu as a fearless and patriotic son of the Emirate who played a critical role in the fight against Boko Haram, bringing stability to the region. “The people of Biu Emirate are proud of you as a very distinguished professional soldier,” the Emir declared.

Reacting to the honor, former Chief of Army Staff and Nigeria’s Ambassador to the Republic of Benin, Lieutenant General Tukur Yusuf Buratai CFR, commended the Emir of Biu for recognizing the sacrifices and dedication of General Bulama Biu. He highlighted the retired general’s outstanding military service, particularly his leadership as GOC 7 Division and Commander Sector 3 MNJTF, where he exhibited remarkable bravery and tactical excellence.

“General Bulama Biu is a warrior whose contributions to national security will never be forgotten,” Buratai stated. “His military career was shaped by discipline, courage, and an unwavering commitment to defending Nigeria. This honor by the Emir of Biu is well-deserved, and I have no doubt that he will continue to serve the Emirate and the nation with distinction.”

Buratai further noted that General Bulama Biu follows in the footsteps of his late father, Major Bulama Biu MON, the first Regimental Sergeant Major of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), who was highly respected for his role in training generations of military officers.

Borno State Deputy Governor, His Excellency Alhaji Umar Usman Kadafur, also congratulated General Bulama Biu, describing him as a fearless and pragmatic leader who won the admiration of his troops, security agencies, and the Civilian Joint Task Force (JTF). “He was always in the bush, leading from the front, never backing down,” the deputy governor remarked.

The traditional turbanning ceremony for General Bulama Biu is set to take place on a date to be announced, as the people of Biu Emirate prepare to celebrate one of their own—a battle-tested soldier now honored as their ‘Sarkin Yaki’ (Warlord).

Buratai Lauds Emir of Biu for Bestowing ‘Sarkin Yaki’ Title on Gen Bulama Biu mini (Rtd)

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Mum Saved My Destiny!’ – Gospel Star Frank Edwards Remembers How His Mother Stopped Him from Signing $320,000 Deal

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Mum Saved My Destiny!' – Gospel Star Frank Edwards Remembers How His Mother Stopped Him from Signing $320,000 Deal

‘Mum Saved My Destiny!’ – Gospel Star Frank Edwards Remembers How His Mother Stopped Him from Signing $320,000 Deal

Renowned gospel singer Frank Edwards has taken to social media to honor his mother on Mother’s Day, sharing a powerful story of how she saved him from what could have been a career-altering mistake. Edwards, now a global gospel sensation, revealed how his mother’s wisdom and spiritual foresight prevented him from signing a $320,000 (now worth N492 million) music contract that would have cost him control over his entire catalogue.

Reflecting on the defining moment in his career, Edwards recalled being offered the lucrative deal by a music group eager to acquire the rights to his work. As a young and ambitious artist, the financial offer was tempting, but his mother saw what he could not. Despite having initially supported his music career by giving him N150,000 to set up his studio, she took drastic steps to ensure he did not sign the contract.

“The very first time in my life years ago, I was to close a $320,000 deal from a group that wanted to almost own my entire catalogue. You said NO! And I quote you: ‘The 150,000 naira I gave you to start that studio is bigger than that money, just give it time. They are not of God,’” Edwards wrote.

In a shocking revelation, the gospel star admitted that his mother went as far as seizing his international passport to stop him from traveling abroad to finalize the agreement.

“In fact, you took my international passport away from me just to ensure I don’t travel to close that deal. I was laughing because I didn’t need to travel to close it, but then I listened to you. After you said that, I was thinking, ‘How is 150,000 Naira bigger than $320,000?’”

Years later, Edwards now fully understands the wisdom behind his mother’s decision, acknowledging that her unwavering faith and guidance set him on the right path.

“Now I understand. There is so much to say! But like I said, this space is not enough! Happy Mother’s Day, mum!!! Thank you for everything. Thank you for an impenetrable wall of fire! Thank you for always telling me the mind of God about the things I’m doing. None of your words fell to the ground because you truly hear from God,” he wrote.

Today, Edwards stands as one of the biggest gospel artists in Africa, with full control over his music and a flourishing career. His testimony serves as a reminder of the power of a mother’s love, wisdom, and divine guidance.

Fans and fellow celebrities have since flooded his post with praises and admiration for his mother’s discernment, emphasizing the importance of spiritual direction in the entertainment industry. Many have also hailed Edwards for honoring his mother’s sacrifices, proving that sometimes, faith and patience lead to far greater rewards than instant gratification.

 

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GRACE EFOBI: FROM CHOIR STAR TO GLOBAL GOSPEL SENSATION! 

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GRACE EFOBI: FROM CHOIR STAR TO GLOBAL GOSPEL SENSATION! 

Nigerian-UK Worship Powerhouse Celebrates 15 Years in Music, Promotes New Hit ‘Jigidem,’ and Gears Up for April 2025 Release!

 

Grace Efobi, the UK-based Nigerian contemporary gospel artist, has continued to soar in the global gospel music scene, marking 15 years of professional music ministry with an unwavering passion for God’s kingdom. Born and raised in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, Nigeria, her journey began in the church choir, where her voice first captivated hearts. Today, she stands as a seasoned recording artist with 10 powerful tracks to her name.

 ‘JIGIDEM’ TAKES CENTER STAGE! 

Efobi’s latest release, Jigidem, is making waves across digital platforms, blessing listeners with its soul-stirring melodies. Featuring the sensational Rheta Ritche Jacobs, the song is a divine anthem of hope, faith, and strength in God.

 NEW MUSIC ALERT: ‘YOU REIGN’ DROPS APRIL 2025!

As she continues her remarkable journey, Efobi is set to release a brand-new single, ‘YOU REIGN,’ in April 2025. The song is a powerful declaration of God’s supremacy, the resurrection of Christ, and His infinite greatness. With her signature heartfelt delivery and lyrical depth, You Reign promises to be a worship anthem for generations.

A WOMAN OF IMPACT

Beyond the music, Grace Efobi is a devoted wife, mother, and proud grandmother, balancing her family life with an unshakable commitment to spreading the gospel through music. Her unwavering faith and dedication continue to inspire many across the globe.

💬 Stay connected with Grace Efobi:
📌 Instagram: @graceefobi
📌 Facebook: @graceefobi
📌 TikTok: @graceefobi
📌 YouTube: @gefobi7@googlemail.com

With her voice as a vessel of worship, Grace Efobi’s legacy in gospel music is only getting stronger! 

#GraceEfobi #Jigidem #YouReign #GospelMusic #WorshipAnthem #KingdomSound

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