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Bayelsa Governor Denies Allegations Of Impregnating Reality TV Star, Nengi

 

Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri, has dismissed social media rumors alleging that he is responsible for the pregnancy of reality TV star, Nengi Hampson.

The rumors, which recently gained traction online, claimed that Nengi had given birth to the governor’s child, with some speculating that he has four wives.

According to The Guardian, social media was flooded on Monday with claims that the 27-year-old former Big Brother Naija (BBNaija) star was expecting a child with Diri, who had appointed her as Senior Special Assistant on Girl Child Development in 2020.

Reacting to the allegations, the governor’s Chief Press Secretary (CPS), Samuel Oredipe, took to Facebook on Tuesday to denounce the claims, describing them as “fake news” spread by “wicked people.”

He clarified that there was no personal relationship between the governor and Nengi beyond her official appointment, accusing political opponents of fabricating the story to tarnish Diri’s image during the fifth anniversary of his administration.

He wrote, “Political enemies of His Excellency Senator Douye Diri, Governor of Bayelsa State, are at work again. What a wicked set of people spreading falsehood on a day the Prosperity Administration commenced activities marking its 5th anniversary.

Nengi Rebecca Hampson has no personal relationship with Governor Diri, and it is regrettable that purveyors of fake news are not happy with the towering political profile of the governor.

Nengi herself has come out clean on social media to debunk their lies.

“This is a distraction, and some of us are very justified on the many reasons offered to regulate the use of various social media.”

“Sadly, while we were inaugurating a brand new road in Yenagoa, social media e-rats were spreading falsehood about the governor. Governor Diri is a man of honour and dignity.”

Nengi also addressed the speculation via her X handle, refuting the allegations and expressing frustration over the spread of false information.

“As much as I believe social media lies aren’t worth my time, I’ve come to accept that we live in a world where people are quick to spread lies without limits. So, let me be clear, I’m not pregnant for any governor.

“I’ve chosen to speak because this isn’t just an attack on me—it involves people I hold in the highest regard, and I won’t allow a beautiful, personal part of my life to be turned into something ugly. While I continue to mind my business and enjoy my pregnancy in peace, I wish y’all love and a happy Valentine’s weekend,” she wrote.

The controversy coincides with Governor Diri’s administration celebrating its fifth anniversary, with his aides attributing the allegations to political mischief aimed at distracting from his achievements.

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Fela Durotoye Reveals How He Rejected N5bn Fraudulent Deal, Refused Salary, Car Under Tinubu

 

Renowned leadership coach and former presidential candidate of the defunct Alliance for New Nigeria, Fela Durotoye, has disclosed how he turned down a fraudulent government deal worth N5 billion despite immense pressure from an official who claimed to be a pastor.

Speaking at the ongoing biannual conference of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria in Abuja on Tuesday, Durotoye recounted the experience, describing it as a test of integrity.

He explained that an official approached him with a lucrative training contract, designed to train individuals across all 774 local government areas in Nigeria within eight weeks.

The official insisted that Durotoye was the best person for the job.

After careful evaluation, Durotoye’s team determined a fair cost of N1.3 billion for the training programme.

However, just three days later, he received a call from the presidency confirming that he had secured the contract.

Surprisingly, he was informed that his invoice was too low and was offered an additional N700 million, bringing the total to N2 billion.

They then asked him to submit an invoice for N5 billion.

Alarmed by the inflated figure, Durotoye questioned the ethics of the request, particularly since the programme focused on ethical leadership.

However, the official dismissed his concerns, assuring him that it wasn’t an exploitation of the country’s resources.

“He said he had served the country and deserved compensation. When I reminded him that the blessings of God make one rich and add no sorrow, he fired back, saying, ‘There is no sorrow in this one. You have been doing well for Nigeria. It’s time for Nigeria to do well for you,’” Durotoye recalled.

Under mounting pressure, he decided to turn off his phone.

Three months later, reports emerged that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had arrested some presidency officials for misappropriating N426 million from the ethical leadership training fund.

Reflecting on the experience, Durotoye emphasized the importance of strong moral values in resisting corruption.

“Only your values can help you turn down corrupt tendencies,” he stated.

He also spoke about his tenure as Special Assistant to the President under the Tinubu administration, revealing that he declined the usual perks of office, including an official car, house, and salary.

“It was difficult to get my letter out because, according to somebody in government, my refusal to collect those things would make it difficult to pin me to corruption,” he said.

Despite these challenges, Durotoye acknowledged that there were others in government who shared his commitment to integrity.

“When we have the right values, there won’t be corruption in this land,” he concluded.

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2Baba Declares Love For Edo Lawmaker Natasha, Addresses Marriage Speculations

 

Nigerian music icon Innocent Idibia, popularly known as 2Baba, has publicly professed his love for Honourable Natasha Osawaru, an Edo State lawmaker, stating his intention to marry her.

The singer made this revelation in a video shared via his Instagram handle on Wednesday morning, responding to growing speculation about his relationship with Osawaru.

“Yes, I love her. She’s amazing, she’s cool. I want to marry her. That is on one side. On the other side, Annie and I are not fighting, we are not quarrelling, we have a good understanding of ourselves and what’s going on,” he said.

His statement follows his surprise visit to the Edo State House of Assembly on Monday, which sparked a frenzy on social media.

A viral video captured him sitting discreetly among a group, as onlookers gathered in excitement.

In the video, a commentator remarked, “Guys, 2face just entered the Edo State House of Assembly and has caused commotion everywhere. 2face is in the Edo State House of Assembly right now.”

The timing of his visit fueled speculation about an alleged affair with Osawaru, particularly in light of his separation from his wife, Annie Idibia.

Social media blogger, Cutie Juls had previously suggested that Osawaru was his new love interest, though her spokesperson, Eseosa Okundia, dismissed the claims as “false and baseless.”

Despite Osawaru’s denial, 2Baba’s recent declaration has intensified discussions about their relationship.

Addressing the rumors, he took to his video to clarify his stance.

“So, allegedly, I’ve been seeing so many things, so many people coming up with their own false narratives, false talk, and malicious nonsense after I posted that stuff. And I posted it, yes—any person wey get brain go understand. But for all the people who have been saying different stuff that don’t have an absolute clue about what’s going on, I hail you people. Your life is perfect, very right.”

He also defended Osawaru, emphasizing that she had no role in his marital issues despite being dragged into the controversy.

“Honourable Natasha has seen. She has been called all sorts of names. She is a young, brilliant, amazing woman. She had nothing to do with what’s happening between Annie and me in our marriage. She has absolutely nothing to do with that, but I see everybody allegedly trying to rope her into everything,” he said.

Taking a sarcastic jab at the constant rumors surrounding him, he added, “So allegedly, everybody has been saying stuff. Allegedly, keep alleging. We shall continue to be alleging. So thank you very much. Move on with your perfect life.”

He concluded by humorously suggesting that authorities should regulate how people spread baseless claims online.

“Nah me carry am come there, so I understand what is going to happen. I put am as una business, so you are allowed to interfere. In fact, I will ask Congress—we have to do something about this alleging. Everybody’s hiding behind it to just say anything they want to say, embarrassing people up and down.”

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Telecom Operators Begin New Tariff Regime With 50% Price Hike On Calls, Data

 

After nearly 12 years without a significant adjustment, Nigeria’s telecommunications sector has commenced the implementation of a new tariff regime, with a 50% increase in call, data, and SMS charges.

The price adjustment, approved by the Federal Government, took effect on Tuesday, with MTN leading the charge.

Many subscribers on the network woke up to find higher data and SMS costs.

According to MTN’s updated pricing, the 1.8GB monthly plan now costs N1,500, up from N1,000, while the 20GB bundle has risen from N5,500 to N7,500.

The 15GB monthly plan now stands at N6,500 instead of N4,500.

A particularly steep hike was recorded in the 15GB weekly plan, which jumped from N2,000 to N6,000, a 200% increase.

Longer-term plans were not spared, as the 1.5 terabyte (90-day) package increased from N150,000 to N240,000, while the 600GB (90-day) plan now costs N120,000, up from N75,000.

Text message charges also saw a 50% rise, with the cost of sending an SMS moving from N4 to N6.

A senior telecom executive, speaking anonymously, confirmed that operators received final approval from the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) on Monday.

While MTN has already implemented the new pricing, other networks – Airtel, Globacom, and 9mobile – are expected to adjust their tariffs shortly.

The Chairman of the Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), Gbenga Adebayo, recently disclosed that all operators had submitted their revised tariff proposals to the NCC, awaiting regulatory clearance.

The NCC had earlier announced the tariff adjustment on January 20, citing rising operational costs and the need to maintain industry sustainability.

The commission, in a statement signed by its Director of Public Affairs, Reuben Muoka, emphasized that the decision aligns with its regulatory mandate under the Nigerian Communications Act (2003).

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Anambra Gov’ship: Former NIWA Boss, Moghalu Picks Labour Party Nomination Form 

Dr. George Moghalu, former Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), has officially declared his ambition to contest the 2025 governorship election.

Moghalu, a seasoned administrator and political figure, picked up the Labour Party (LP) nomination forms at the party’s national secretariat in Abuja, signaling the start of his campaign.

Announcing his decision, Moghalu expressed his commitment to transforming Anambra State into a model of development, prosperity, and good governance.

“This significant step marks the beginning of our collective journey towards a brighter future for Anambra State,” he stated.

“As a seasoned leader with a proven track record, my vision is to transform our beloved state into a beacon of prosperity, peace, and progress.”

Moghalu’s campaign is anchored on addressing critical challenges that have plagued the state, including insecurity, unemployment, and economic stagnation.

He pledged to introduce policies that will enhance education and healthcare infrastructure, drive economic growth through innovation and entrepreneurship, and strengthen security measures to safeguard lives and property.

His entry into the Labour Party race is expected to energize the political discourse in Anambra, as he presents himself as a credible alternative with a governance blueprint rooted in transparency, accountability, and people-centered leadership.

“As we embark on this transformative journey, I invite every well-meaning Anambra citizen to join me. Together, we can build a state that offers opportunities for all, where governance works for the people,” Moghalu declared.

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2027: History Repeats Itself As Nigerian Youths Remain Unprepared, Left Out – By Chizoba Emmanuel Ugwuagbo

By Chizoba Emmanuel Ugwuagbo, 

From El-Rufai’s outbursts to the wave of defections by political actors across the nation, the 2027 election is gradually taking shape. Yet, as usual, the youths are conspicuously absent from the scheme of things.

This aligns with the now-established behavioral pattern of young people who claim they want to lead Nigeria.

They feign ignorance, cheer on, and laugh off political alignments that shape election outcomes, dismissing them as mere political drama. Then, a few months before the election, they suddenly begin claiming they want to contest for positions.

The Not Too Young to Run Act has allowed young people above the age of 25 to contest important positions like House of Assembly, House of Representatives, and LGA Chairmanship. Those above 30 can run for gubernatorial and senatorial positions, while the presidency is reserved for those above 35.

However, the Not Too Young to Run Act will not prepare young people for elections. It will not form alliances for them, build structures for them, shape narratives for them, or vote for them.

Therefore, to sit back at this point—when the narratives that will drive campaigns are being woven, when alliances that will produce candidates are being formed, and when grassroots support is being consolidated—is to strategically count oneself out of the process.

What this does to us is that we wake up to an election year in which the narratives are already set, leaving us with no choice but to pick a side and play second fiddle to those who crafted them. You can never outdo people in a game they designed.

This is the moment we must abandon all lukewarmness and actively work on formulating agendas, propaganda, narratives, and strategies that will not only ensure we control the discourse but also secure victory at the polls.

2027 is closer than we think. By this time next year, everything will be set for primaries.

If we do not start now, we will only start making noise when we are sidelined once again after the primaries.

Taa bụ gboo.

Ugwuagbo Emmanuel Chizoba is a journalist and scholar based in Enugu.

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Enugu Singles To Celebrate Valentine’s Day With Special Ice Cream Hangout, Funfair, New Connections

 

Enugu is set to be the place for singles this Valentine’s Day, with an exciting Valentine Ice Cream Hangout promising a perfect blend of fun, great food, music, and engaging conversations.

The event will take place on Friday, 14th February 2025, at Mama Onyinye Plus, located at 77 Park Avenue (formerly Old Twist Lounge) behind Shoprite in GRA Enugu, starting from 3:00 pm.

Whether you’re looking to meet new people, make lasting friendships, or even find love, this fun-filled hangout offers something for everyone.

Enjoy tasty ice cream, dance to some great tunes, share stories, and perhaps even spark a new connection.

Those eager to join the fun, can secure their spot by reaching out to Samuel at +234 813 731 0220 for reservations.

Come for the ice cream, stay for the fun, and leave with memories.

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Wabara’s Suspension Reckless, Unconstitutional, Joke Taken Too Far – PDP NWC

 

The National Working Committee (NWC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has dismissed the reported suspension of the Chairman of the Board of Trustees (BoT), Senator Adolphus Wabara, labeling it as unconstitutional.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, denounced the suspension, stating that it was in clear violation of the PDP Constitution (as amended in 2017) and failed to follow due process.

The statement read, “No State Working Committee has the power to suspend or take any disciplinary action against a member of the National Executive Committee (NEC) of the Party without due recourse to the NWC, as clearly provided under Section 57 (7) of the PDP Constitution.”

According to The PUNCH, Wabara’s suspension was announced by the Abia State chapter of the party in October 2023, following his endorsement of Governor Alex Otti for a second term, just five months into Otti’s administration.

However, the PDP’s leadership referenced Section 57 (7) of its constitution, which explicitly states that only the NEC has the authority to discipline a NEC member, Deputy Governor, or National Assembly member.

Citing this provision, the NWC reaffirmed that the state chapter lacked the jurisdiction to suspend Wabara, stressing that the action was both “reckless and unconstitutional.”

The party warned those behind the move to reverse course or face disciplinary action themselves.

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Gov. Yahaya Condemns Killing Of ECWA Pastor, Orders Arrest Of Perpetrators

Governor Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State has strongly condemned the killing of Rev. Bala Galadima, the Presiding Clergy of the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) in Lubo community, Yamaltu/Deba Local Government Area.

The tragic incident occurred in the early hours of Sunday when suspected armed robbers attacked Galadima at his residence in Lubo village.

The governor, in a statement released on Monday by his media aide, Ismaila Uba-Misilli, described the murder as an attack on the peace and security that Gombe State has worked hard to maintain.

Yahaya emphasized that such violent acts must not be allowed to threaten the state’s long-standing harmony and coexistence.

“I have directed security agencies to leave no stone unturned in tracking down the perpetrators and bringing them to justice,” he stated.

Reassuring residents of his government’s commitment to security, Yahaya vowed to take all necessary steps to ensure the safety of lives and property.

“I want to reassure the good people of Gombe State that the government remains resolute in its commitment to ensuring their safety and security. We will continue to take decisive measures and deploy superior force to eliminate criminal elements wherever they may be hiding,” he added.

The governor extended his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, the ECWA Church, and the Christian community in Gombe State, praying for the peaceful repose of Rev. Galadima’s soul.

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NRC Halts Operations In Nearly 20 Countries Over US Aid Freeze

The Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC), one of the world’s largest humanitarian organizations, has announced the suspension of its aid operations in nearly 20 countries due to a freeze on US funding under President Donald Trump’s administration.

In a statement released on Monday, the NRC stated, “For the first time in our history, (we) will have to suspend ongoing and urgent humanitarian work for hundreds of thousands of people in nearly 20 countries affected by wars, disasters, and displacement.”

The organization attributed this drastic measure to “the stop, partial suspension, or lack of reimbursement of United States funding for our global humanitarian operations.”

According to the NRC, US-supported programs helped “1.6 million people” in 2024 alone.

The United States accounted for “just under 20 percent or $150 million” of the agency’s total funding last year.

The funding freeze has already led to the suspension of “emergency support to 57,000 people in communities along the frontlines” in Ukraine.

The organization also warned that it is being “forced to lay off aid workers around the world,” including in Afghanistan, and would soon be unable to sustain “US-funded lifesaving humanitarian programmes” in Burkina Faso and Sudan’s Darfur region.

The NRC further disclosed that it has “millions of dollars in outstanding payment requests to the US government” and warned that without these funds, “hundreds of thousands of people” would be “left without vital assistance previously supported by US humanitarian funding.”

Since taking office last month, President Trump has ordered the suspension of foreign assistance and has called for the closure of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), which oversees US humanitarian aid worldwide.

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