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SGF, Babachir Lawal faces more trouble as Senate ‘attacks’ him over statement

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Bukola-Saraki

The Senate on Thursday hit back at the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Babachir Lawal, after he dismissed the legislative body as saying “balderdash” over the call for his removal and prosecution.

The Senate had on Wednesday asked President Muhammadu Buhari to suspend Mr. Lawal and ensure his prosecution over alleged breach of Nigerian laws in handling contracts awarded by the Presidential Initiative for the North East, PINE.

An ad-hoc committee of the Senate on “mounting humanitarian crisis in the North East” led by Shehu Sani submitted its interim report on Wednesday and indicted Mr. Lawal for receiving N233 million contract to clear invasive plant species in Yobe State through a company, Rholavision Nigeria Limited, whose directorship he allegedly held till September 2016 over a year after his appointment; in breach of Nigeria’s code of conduct for public officials as enshrined in the 1999 constitution.

Rholavision was incorporated in 1990 by Mr. Lawal, he confirmed, to carry out information and communication technology services; but it was found by the Senate to be handling N233 million bush clearing contract in the North East in 2016.

The Yobe State Government said the contract was not never executed.

But less than an hour after the Senate indicted him and called on authorities to punish him, Mr. Lawal accompanied his principal, Mr. Buhari, to the National Assembly to present the 2017 budget proposal.

After the presentation, Mr. Lawal told journalists the Senate was only haunting him and trying to “rubbish” his personality.

“The senate is talking balderdash; it has developed the habit of bring him down syndrome,” he said.

“I have the report of the senate committee in which it was said that I didn’t resign from Rholavision Nigeria Limited. Let me tell you, Rholavision was formed by me in December 1990, and it has been a company that was run very successfully.

“Now, when I was appointed secretary to the government of the federation, I resigned from that company on 18th August 2015. I can see that in their report, they are talking about 2016. I don’t know where they got their facts.

“By the way, it is very instructive that when the committee was sitting, no effort was ever made to invite me to come and make a submission. It is therefore, surprising that they devoted a whole session of today (Wednesday) at maligning me, claiming what is not true without even giving me the chance to come and put my own case before them.”

But on Thursday when the Senate resumed, Dino Melaye brought the matter up, saying his privilege and that of his colleagues had been breached by Mr. Lawal.

The Senate insisted on its committee’s findings and Senators took turns to lambast Mr. Lawal.

“President should review how somebody like Babachir Lawal managed to get into this government,” said Chukwuka Utazi (PDP-Enugu).

Also commenting, Mr. Saraki said the Senate had played its role to expose Mr. Lawal and that the onus was on the executive “in a government that is fighting corruption” to do the needful.

“But I know Nigerians are watching,” said Mr. Saraki, adding that the Senate would directly communicate its resolutions that Mr. Lawal should be suspended and prosecuted to the President.

Later, the chairman of the committee whose report indicted Mr. Lawal, Mr. Sani (APC-Kaduna), spoke with PREMIUM TIMES exclusively and insisted Mr. Lawal lied in the claims he made.

He said Mr. Lawal was invited contrary to his claim.

“We invited him but he sent a representative,” said Mr. Sani.

On the claim of resigning from the company last year before the contract was even awarded in March 2016, Mr. Sani said, “we got to know from the Corporate Affairs Commission (that he held directorship till September 2016).

“We wrote the Corporate Affairs Commission and they supplied us the information.”

He said there was more the committee would reveal regarding how officials and companies criminally benefited from the North East crisis when the Senate resume next year.

 

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Wilfred Ndidi Spreads Christmas Cheer to 2,000 Kids in Ajegunle, Lagos

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Wilfred Ndidi Spreads Christmas Cheer to 2,000 Kids in Ajegunle, Lagos

Wilfred Ndidi Spreads Christmas Cheer to 2,000 Kids in Ajegunle, Lagos

 

In a heartwarming gesture of generosity, Super Eagles and Leicester City midfielder Wilfred Ndidi on Thursday, December 26, brought immense joy to over 2,000 children in the bustling city of Ajegunle, Lagos. The festive spirit filled the air as the star athlete, alongside local dignitaries and notable figures, made Christmas unforgettable for the children in this vibrant community.

 

The grand event, held at the Maracana Sports Centre, was a collaborative effort between Ndidi, renowned businessman Yemi Idowu, Fatai Ayoola, the chairman of Ajeromi-Ifelodun Local Government Area, and the traditional ruler of Iwa and Apapa, Mohammed Amodu-Tijani. The Boxing Day children’s party became a major highlight of the Christmas season in Ajegunle, attracting widespread attention from locals and the media.

 

Despite currently sidelined due to a hamstring injury, Ndidi took the time to give back to the community in a deeply personal way. The 28-year-old midfielder was seen serving food to the excited children and distributing gifts, bringing smiles and happiness to everyone present. His presence at the event served as an uplifting reminder of the power of generosity and community spirit.

 

Speaking to the crowd, Ndidi explained that his own childhood experiences were a driving force behind the initiative. “I feel like it’s a festive period and these kids deserve something like this. It’s something they will have to remember and the memory sticks with them,” Ndidi said, his voice filled with sincerity.

 

He continued, “The happiness on the faces of the children can’t be explained. When you do something for adults, the emotions stay with them only, but when you do something for kids, the adults see it as well, so they also try to do the same. All we are trying to do is to create memories, and I’m happy to be doing this because some of us didn’t have this experience while growing up. I grew up in the barracks like most people know. This is not about football now. Schools are on break and this is a time to create memories, especially among kids.”

 

The event was not only about the celebration but also about fostering a sense of unity and shared joy. Yemi Idowu, CEO of Cana Sports, expressed his admiration for Ndidi’s involvement. “This is part of something we do every year to try and celebrate with the kids, especially because we are here in Ajegunle and they are friends. I am very happy to have the king, the chairman, and Wilfred to support us in doing this. It has a bigger impact when we all work together.”

 

The Ajeromi-Ifelodun Local Government Chairman, Fatai Ayoola, commended the collective effort to bring smiles to the faces of the children. He highlighted the meticulous organization that made the event a success, explaining, “What we have done is to first accredit them from the LGA secretariat and we drove the kids into this venue. We also made arrangements for those who would come unannounced at the Maracana Park, and they would equally be taken care of as much as those inside so we can have a perfect party. It’s a back-to-back celebration for the kids of Ajegunle, and we are elated to host Ndidi. This month alone, we have had three visitors who have given the kids befitting Christmas gifts. So, what we are doing is to make them happy in grand style.”

 

The event served as a beautiful reminder of the true essence of Christmas — bringing people together, spreading joy, and creating lasting memories. For the children of Ajegunle, it was a day filled with laughter, love, and unforgettable moments, thanks to the unwavering commitment of Wilfred Ndidi and his collaborators.

 

As the community continues to celebrate the season, the impact of Ndidi’s kind gesture will no doubt be felt for years to come, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to be part of the festivities.

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Nollywood Star Omoborty Seals Her Love Story with a Stunning Legal Wedding

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Nollywood Star Biodun Okeowo, “Omoborty,” Officially Ties the Knot in Legal Ceremony

 

Nollywood actress and entrepreneur Biodun Okeowo, widely known as Omoborty, has officially tied the knot with her partner in a heartfelt legal ceremony. The event, which comes months after their traditional wedding, was held on a significant day for the actress—her birthday.

 

Omoborty took to Instagram to share the joyous news, posting stunning photos from the ceremony. The images captured the love and joy of the occasion, which marked a new chapter in her life.

“In the euphoria of my birthday, I’m thrilled to share the memories from one of the most beautiful days of my life. The day I legally said ‘yes’ to the man of my heart before God and man,” she wrote in her caption.

The actress emphasized that all necessary customs and protocols were observed, expressing pride in her journey to becoming “Mrs. Biodun Sofuyi.” Reflecting on the milestone, she added, “My first wedding, and by God’s grace, the last. Amen.”

Omoborty’s fans and colleagues have since flooded her social media pages with congratulatory messages and heartfelt well-wishes, celebrating her new status as a legally married woman.

The actress, known for her captivating performances and entrepreneurial spirit, continues to inspire with her authenticity and joy. With this union, she embarks on a fresh chapter filled with hope, love, and the blessings of a bright future.

Nollywood Star Omoborty Seals Her Love Story with a Stunning Legal Wedding

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Fuji Star, King Saheed Osupa Celebrates Nollywood Legends with Awards and ₦500,000 Each at Exclusive White Agbada Party

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Fuji Star, King Saheed Osupa Celebrates Nollywood Legends with Awards and ₦500,000 Each at Exclusive White Agbada Party

 

Yesterday, Christmas Day, December 25, 2024, Fuji music maestro Saheed Osupa brought the festive spirit alive with the much-anticipated Friends of Osupa Exclusive White Agbada Party. The grand event, which took place in Lagos, celebrated some of the most revered legends in the Yoruba Nollywood industry, blending entertainment, recognition, and cultural significance.

The occasion was not just a party but a heartwarming tribute to the dedication and contributions of veteran thespians who have left an indelible mark on the Yoruba film industry. Speaking passionately about the event, Saheed Osupa stated, “It is a privilege to celebrate these iconic individuals who have worked tirelessly to promote and grow the Yoruba Nollywood space. This event is not only a celebration of their achievements but also a way to spread love and joy this yuletide season.”

*A Star-Studded Event*
The all-white-themed Agbada party was attended by an array of Yoruba Nollywood legends, including Oga Bello, Baba Wande, Iya Rainbow, Iya Awero, Ogogo, Yinka Quadri, Peju Ogunmola, Lola Idije, Madam Saje, and Dele Odule. In a special moment, the legendary Queen Salawa Abeni, a trailblazer in Nigerian music, was also honored, adding another layer of prestige to the gathering.

Also in attendance were Ibrahim Chatta, Oladapo Lala, Lukmon Raji, Azeez Owo, Adeniyi Johnson, Foluke Damola, Kemi Korede, Monsuru Omo Alfa, Aminatu Papapa, Sodik Adebayo, Adebayo Tijani, and Hip-hop act, Skales.

Each of these icons received an award recognizing their lifelong commitment to the growth of Yoruba Nollywood. Beyond the awards, they were also gifted the sum of ₦500,000 each, a gesture that underscored the high regard Saheed Osupa holds for their contributions.

*Entertainment and Prayers*
The event was not only a celebration but also a deeply spiritual occasion. A session of prayers was held, led by Sheikh Albarizy Salaty alongside three other Alfas (Muslim clerics), in honor of the late Barrister, the founder of Fuji music. This solemn moment reflected the strong cultural and religious values underpinning the event.

Guests were also treated to an array of thrilling performances from artists such as Mudasax Aljiyally, Arole Zambo, Idris Aloma (Obalola), Ishola Saridon 2 Kamoru, Kehinde Oriyomi, Muri Thunder, and Queen Tosin Eniba. Their performances set the stage for Saheed Osupa himself, who delivered a soulful and captivating performance to the delight of fans and honorees alike.

*A New Tradition*
The Friends of Osupa Exclusive White Agbada Party marked its debut this year and promises to become an annual tradition, taking place every Christmas Day. This first-of-its-kind celebration was organized seamlessly, with ushers ensuring smooth coordination and adequate security measures in place.

*The Organizers*
The event was expertly coordinated by Lahmad Concept, with its CEO, Ahmed Lawal, spearheading the efforts as the chief organizer. His meticulous planning ensured that every aspect of the event, from the awards to the performances, ran flawlessly.

*A Celebration of Legacy*
The Friends of Osupa Exclusive White Agbada Party was more than just a social gathering; it was a celebration of legacy, culture, and unity. The honorees expressed their gratitude for the recognition and generous gifts, commending Saheed Osupa for his thoughtfulness and vision.

As the event drew to a close, it was clear that this celebration was not only a highlight of the yuletide season but also the start of a cherished tradition. Saheed Osupa has undoubtedly set a new standard for honoring icons in the Yoruba Nollywood and Fuji music spheres, leaving many excited for next year’s edition.

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