celebrity radar - gossips

TOURISM CONSULTANTS DRAG INI EDO, POLICE IG TO COURT …demand N500m as damages

Published

7 years ago

February 16, 2018

Nollywood actress, Ini Edo, and the Inspector General of Police, Ibrahim Idris, are among persons standing trial for allegedly masterminding the infringement of the fundamental human rights of two tourism consultants, Mr. Joseph Utin and Mr. Ubong Ekpe, by arresting and detaining the duo without trial.
In a suit application dated 5th February, 2018, filed at the Federal High Court of Nigeria, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Iniobong Edo Ekim, SUPOL Dauda, SUPOL Chinedu and Inspector General of Police, Ibrahim Idris Kpotum, are listed as Respondents, while Joseph Utin (Mr.) and Ubong Ekpe (Mr.) are the Applicants.
A Motion Exparte filed by the Applicants sought for “An Order of Perpetual Injunction restraining the Respondents, their agents, servants or officers in Akwa Ibom State Command or any other Command or formation in Nigeria from repeating the arrest or detention of the Applicants or inviting them to Abuja.…”
It also prayed the court to compel the Respondents to pay the sum of Five Hundred Million Naira (N500,000,000) as damages to the Applicants as well as a public apology published in one local newspaper and one national tabloid.
Reeling out the grounds upon which the reliefs are sought, the suit application disclosed that on October 20, 2017, the Applicants were arrested by the police officers sent by the Police Inspector General “in a commando manner as they were pushed and beaten by the officers as they were dragging the Applicants down the first floor of the building of the Applicants’ office.”
“The Applicants were forcefully taken to the Police Headquarters of Akwa Ibom State at Ikot Akpan Abia, Uyo, where they detained till 8:00am the next day being the 13th day of October 2017 when the officers took them to the Airport where they were flown to the office of the 4th Respondents at the Police Headquarters in Abuja where the Applicants were again detained for another day at the Maitama Police Station from 8:00pm on the 13th day of October, 2017 to 2;30pm on the 14th day of October, 2017.
“The Applicants were granted bail on the 14th day of October 2017 without knowing what they did to the 1st Respondent that led to the arrest as at 2;30 pm and they were thrown into the street of Abuja to beg for money to pay their way back to Uyo…”, the Application explains.

It further revealed that when the Applicants, on invitation, went to the Inspector General’s office in Abuja on November 14th, 2017, for a scheduled ‘interview’, they were told that SUPOL Dauda and SUPOL Chinedu (2nd and 3rd Respondents) are out for election monitoring in Anambra State.
On the relationship between Ini Edo and the applicants, it was stated on the Suit Application that the Nollywood actress cum aide to Governor Udom Emmanuel on Tourism had contracted the services of the applicants to develop a Tourism guide, a deal which they reportedly agreed a consultancy fee of Thirty Million Naira.
The Applicants claimed that they offered their services including designing the proposal for the IbomFest Heritage Festival 2016 which was however cancelled because of the ill-fated collapse of Reigners Bible Church on December 10, 2016.
“The 1st Respondent was taking the glory but refused to pay the Applicants or produce the Memorandum of Understanding as they agreed with her. When the event was called off, the 1st Respondent abandoned the Applicants, refused to pick their calls nor respond to text messages.
“The Applicants were aware as a fact that all the subheads highlighted in the Tourism Development Blue Print for the State were funded including IbomFest Heritage Festival to the tune of Forty Million Naira for the initial marketing of the project besides the sponsorship support from corporate organizations…”, it explained.
Ini Edo was accused of rebuffing rife attempts for an amicable solution.
The application however disclosed that the consultants are yet to be briefed on the content of the purported petition which the Police acted on to effect the arrest of the duo.
Justice Fatun Rilman of the Federal High Court, Uyo, adopted the suit application and fixed March 8, 2018, for first hearing.

Related Topics:. Police IG . Showbiz coverstory Ini Edo tourism

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celebrity radar - gossips

Help Isaac Solarin Represent South Africa in Prague – A Young Athlete’s Dream Deserves Your Support

Published

24 hours ago

May 31, 2025

Sahara Weekly

Help Isaac Represent South Africa in Prague – A Young Athlete’s Dream Deserves Your Support

13-Year-Old Nigerian-Born Softball Talent Selected for International Tour – Let’s Make It Happen Together

At just 13 years old, Isaac Solarin has achieved what many only dream of – he’s been selected to represent South Africa on the international stage in the Softball Tour to Prague, scheduled for October 5–14, 2025.

But for Isaac, this is more than just a sporting opportunity. It’s a life-changing moment—a chance to shine, grow, and inspire.

Born to Nigerian parents and raised in South Africa, Isaac has shown remarkable dedication both on and off the field. His exceptional performance at a provincial tournament last year caught the attention of Blue Runnings Sport International (BRSI), a top South African organization that facilitates global exposure for promising young athletes. Partnering with IRT Softball, they extended a rare invitation to Isaac—making him the only Nigerian-born athlete on the team.

A Mother’s Pride, A Community’s Hope

Behind every rising star is a story of quiet sacrifice. For Mrs. Doris Solarin-Ikeri, Isaac’s mother and a widow, the journey has been both challenging and rewarding.

“I’m proud of my boy,” she says. “He’s outstanding in his studies and his extracurriculars. This tour is a reward for his years of discipline and dedication.”

Now, with limited financial resources, she’s appealing to fellow South Africans, Nigerians, and well-wishers worldwide to help raise the R56,000 needed for Isaac to travel, compete, and grow as an international athlete.

This amount covers:

Return flights and airport taxes

Accommodation and meals

Professional coaching

Tournament participation

Team kit and apparel

Travel insurance

Additional costs—like visa fees, passport renewals, and equipment—push the total even higher. As a single mother on a modest income, Mrs. Solarin simply can’t do it alone.

Why Your Support Matters

In a world where many youths lose hope, sports can be a powerful force for transformation. By supporting Isaac, you are:

Investing in the future of African youth

Promoting unity and representation in sport

Encouraging academic and athletic excellence

This is more than a donation—it’s a vote of confidence in a hardworking young boy.

“Every cent counts. You’re not just funding a trip—you’re building a future,” Mrs. Solarin adds.

How You Can Help

Visit Isaac’s official fundraising page and donate here:

https://www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/help-isaac-represent-south-africa

If you can’t contribute financially, please share the campaign across your social media networks. Awareness is just as powerful.

Let’s Help Isaac Soar

Let’s show the world what African talent can do when it’s given the right support. Together, we can send Isaac to Prague and help him carry the hopes of many young athletes across the continent.

Be part of his story. Be part of the journey. Support Isaac today.

celebrity radar - gossips

Prophet Ogundipe Honors Governor Dapo Abiodun’s 65th Birthday With Gratitude And Blessings

Published

2 days ago

May 30, 2025

Sahara Weekly

Prophet Ogundipe Honors Governor Dapo Abiodun’s 65th Birthday With Gratitude And Blessings

Prophet Israel Oladele Ogundipe of Genesis Global Church recently celebrated Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State on his 65th birthday, expressing heartfelt gratitude for the governor’s impactful leadership and unwavering support for the church and the state. Prophet Ogundipe prayed fervently for Governor Abiodun’s continued good health, wisdom, and divine guidance as he marks this significant milestone. The spiritual leader’s tribute is a testament to the governor’s dedication to the well-being of his people and his commitment to developing the state.

The governor has been a beacon of hope and progress for Ogun State, implementing numerous initiatives that have transformed the state’s infrastructure, economy, and social welfare. From improving road networks to promoting entrepreneurship and education, the governor’s policies have had a lasting impact on the lives of Ogun citizens. His commitment to developing the state has earned him widespread acclaim, and Prophet Ogundipe’s celebration is a reflection of the governor’s positive influence on the state.

The relationship between the respected man of God and Governor Abiodun is built on mutual respect and a shared vision for the betterment of Ogun State. The governor has been a strong supporter of Genesis Global Church, often participating in significant church events and initiatives. In return, Prophet Ogundipe has consistently offered prayers and spiritual guidance to the governor, seeking divine favor and protection for his administration. As Governor Abiodun celebrates his 65th birthday, he can look forward to continued blessings and support from the people and spiritual leaders of Ogun State.

celebrity radar - gossips

Retired, Not Tired: Buratai’s Fitness Routine Sparks Motivation Nationwide

Published

4 days ago

May 28, 2025

Sahara Weekly

Retired, Not Tired: Buratai’s Fitness Routine Sparks Motivation Nationwide

After years of distinguished service at the helm of the Nigerian Army, Lt. Gen. Tukur Yusufu Buratai (rtd) is redefining what life after uniform looks like—with energy, discipline, and a commitment to personal wellness.

Recent photos of the former Chief of Army Staff in the gym, widely shared on social media, show a man who has swapped combat boots for training shoes but not his signature resolve. Relaxed yet resolute, Buratai continues to lead by example—this time, in the pursuit of health and balance.

In a caption accompanying the viral images, Buratai emphasized that his workout routine isn’t just about staying fit—it’s about celebrating a life of service with renewed purpose. “This gym walk-out is about more than exercise; it’s about enjoying the fruits of a long, honorable career,” he wrote.

The message has struck a chord. Admirers across the country have commended his discipline and positivity, lauding his transition from top military leadership to a model of healthy living in retirement. For many, Buratai is not just a retired general—he’s now a wellness ambassador.

His journey offers a powerful reminder: retirement isn’t the end, but the beginning of a new chapter—one where growth, self-care, and inner peace can thrive.