N300,000 church offering turns into paper in Jos

Wonders, they say, shall never end. The leadership and members of St. Marry’s Parish in Hwolshe, Jos, Plateau State were shocked recently when the N300,000 that was realised as collection suddenly turned into bundle of papers.

Olufamous.com gathered that the strange incident happened at the banking hall of Zenith Bank main branch in Jos, where the Church Secretary, Miss Ifeoma Eze had gone to deposite the collection.

“The money was intact when I left home for the bank but on getting to the counter, I opened the polythene bag only to discover that it has turned to bundles of papers. I was so confused and scared; I started screaming and was oblivious of the attention I was attracting as bewildered customers tried to console me,” she said.

Miss Ifeoma said she was particularly confused because she was wondering how to relay the story to the Parish Priest who entrusted the money to her. “It is a story I find difficulty in telling anyone because not many people can believe it,” she added.

Confirming that she actually took the “real” money with her, Miss Ifeoma said she even changed the smaller denominations into bigger ones to ease the deposit processes in the bank.

Although some members of the church thinks there was a foul play somewhere, but Rev. Father Emmanuel Ray-Ikpe, the Parish Priest, described the incident as “unfortunate, surprising and mysterious”.

“I have never heard of such a thing before but it has happened to us; to our Church. There is nothing we can do about it. My secretary came back from the bank crying. Only God knows what exactly happened… We have left everything in the hands of God our creator,” the Reverend Father said.

Men beaten to death while trying to hijack plane

TWO men who allegedly tried to hijack a plane in China were beaten to death by passengers and crew.
The Global Times newspaper reported that two of the suspects died in hospital from injuries they suffered during the ensuing fight with passengers and crew on board.
The men were part of a six-strong gang involved in the foiled hijack of a Tianjin Airlines flight bound for the regional capital of Urumqi last Friday.
Just minutes after the flight took off from Hetian, southwest Xinjiang, the men, all aged between 20 and 36, stood up and announced their plans to terrified passengers.



The gang reportedly broke a pair of aluminium crutches and used them to attack passengers while attempting to break into the cockpit, Hou Hanmin, a regional government spokeswoman said.
They were tackled by police and passengers who tied them up with belts before the plane, carrying 101 people, returned to the airport safely just 22 minutes later.
Hanmin added that police were still testing materials they had been carrying, thought to be explosives.
The men were reported to be Uighurs, the local Muslim ethnic minority. There have been clashes between authorities and Uighurs resentful of government controls over their religion and culture.
Dilxat Raxit, spokesman for the German-based World Uyghur Congress which campaigns for Uighurs’ rights, said that it wasn’t a hijacking attempt, rather an in-flight brawl over a seat dispute.
“We warn China not to use this incident as another excuse for crackdown,” he said in an emailed statement.
Two more suspects are reportedly being treated in hospital after mutilating themselves.

Fresh facts emerge on Farouk/Otedola bribery scandal

*Telephone conversation between duo released
LAGOS – Fresh facts emerged yesterday to corroborate Sunday Vanguard’s story of the alleged telephone conversation between Mr. Lawan Farouk, House of Representatives Committee Chairman on the management of subsidy funds, and Femi Otedola, Executive Chairman, Zenon Oil and Gas, in the unfolding $3 million bribery scandal.

Channels Television yesterday obtained the recorded audio conversation which transpired between both men as reported in the Sunday Vanguard edition of June 17, 2012.

Sunday Vanguard’s report had exclusively disclosed that Hon. Farouk, whether acting on premonition or instinct, decided against going to the airport to collect the alleged of $2.5m – having allegedly collected $500,000, earlier.

The Sunday Vanguard report of June 17, reads:
“Now, whether Farouk had a premonition that he was likely to be set up or that he just didn’t want to be spotted at the airport in the company of Otedola, he simply refused to meet Otedola at the airport afterwards.

”Instead, according to records of the telephone conversation that was bugged, Farouk instead suggested that he would send a third party to collect the money.”

According to the recordings, he gave the telephone numbers of the nominee.

He, according to the recorded conversation between him and Otedola, actually spelt the name of the nominee to Otedola.

”But all these were activities in futility.
”The high command of the SSS would not have a third party collect the balance of $2.5m.

”A senior security source told Sunday Vanguard that the reason why the airport operation was aborted was that since it was Farouk that was being expected to show up and he was now planning to send another party, there was no need to continue.

” Had he shown up and collected the money, he would have been arrested immediately, a source confirmed.”


Lawan Farouk and Femi Otedola
In the recording, the voice said to be Otedola’s asks how the outstanding bribe money should be delivered as Lawan is unavailable.

The audio conversation started with the MD/CEO, Zenon Oil and Gas, Femi Otedola saying he did not want to take the money to his house. “I don’t want to take it to my house; it is a lot of money” he said.

Then the lawmaker replied that he was on his way out and by the time he returned, he would have to head to the chambers of the House of Representatives.

Otedola then asked, if he should reschedule his planned trip to China, but Farouk said no and offered to bring in a third person to collect the bribe.

The lawmaker gave the phone numbers 08036513355, naming the person as TJ.

Acknowledging the transaction, Farouk responded affirmatively to Otedola’s remark that if he received the initial payment, then there would be a balance of $2.5 million, saying “that’s right” while he said, he would be calling the third person to ensure the collection of the initial payment.

The conversation verbatim

Otedola: How are you sir? I don’t want to bring it to my house

Lawan: Oh, you would take it to your house

Otedola: No, I don’t want to bring it to my house; it is a lot of money

Lawan: err… so where? Because I’m rushing to the… they are at the airport now?

Otedola: ? Yes they are in the airport in the aircraft

Lawan: Well, I can’t come over now and before they can come over now unless I send somebody to but
I can’t because…by the time they come I should be…I have a lot of things to do myself

Otedola: Is there anybody you think I can give it to or maybe I should just postpone my trip to China till tomorrow?

Lawan: No, no it’s ok…I’ll arrange it with someone…let me give you his number 080

Otedola: hold on hold on

Lawan: 08036513355

Otedola: (Repeats number after him)What’s the name?

Lawan: TJ

Otedola: Sorry?

Lawan: aaarrh… TJ

Otedola: Ateezay?

Lawan: TJ!

Otedola: Teezay?

Lawan: No, Tj

Otedola: OK. So I will give him the balance; that is erm… 2.5 million dollars, yea?

Lawan: that’s right. Hold on. I’m calling him to be sure his phone is on…..

Lawan Farouk reacts

Meanwhile, Mr Farouk Lawan has reacted to the audio conversation which was broadcast on Channels Television saying Mr Otedola manipulated the audio and challenged the business mogul to produce the complete audio video unedited and undoctored.

In a statement issued on behalf of the lawmaker by his counsel, Chief Mike Ozekhome, SAN, he said,

“we have listened to and watched the audio with our client, Mr Farouk Lawan. On his instructions, we hereby  state that the audio is infertile, vague, puerile and inadmissible in evidence by any Court Of Law or Tribunal.

“Professionally, Channels did make the vital point that the audio was “purported to be their voices”. One simple question here: where is the visual of the audio? Recall that Mr Otedola had told the whole world that he used SSS to carry out a so called “Sting Operation”, which showed Farouk Lawan not only pocketing the sum of  N500,000 US Dollars, but also putting some under his cap, in Mr Otedola’s Lagos home. On Farouk’s instructions, we had debunked this allegation and challenged Mr Otedola, or the Police and SSS to produce this complete audio video, unedited and undoctored.

“Mr Otedola had the opportunity of doing this through Channels TV. But he did not. Rather, he brought highly doctored, manipulated and incomprehensible voices purported to be his and Lawan’s. He will certainly require forensic evidence to prove this to be true in this highly technologised world of manipulative evidence that can easily turn a man into a woman. Certainly, the audio was a sorry anti-climax to what Nigerians had been expecting.

“Even at that, let us take the audio “evidence” itself for whatever, it is worth. The conversation started somewhere in the middle, not from the beginning and ended abruptly. Our client hereby still challenges Mr Otedola to air the entire audio visual and also the complete video for Nigerians to see the setting and  environment in which the alleged bribe took place, who said what, to whom and for what.

“Secondly, our client believes that the entire footage is devilish, satanic, luciferous, mischievous and completely taken out of context. Even then the audio shows that it is Mr Otedola offering to pay the balance of the alleged bribe of N2.5 million US Dollars, not Mr Farouk Lawan.

“Even from what was said, there was no mention of the purpose of the alleged balance of N2.5 million US Dollars, or any mention of Mr Otedola’s indicted companies, Zenon Oil and AP Petroleum, Whose desired removal from the Committee’s indicted companies list allegedly formed the fulcrum of the bribe itself. If it was actually a “sting operation”, why is it Mr Otedola and not the SSS officially releasing it on Channels TV?  The audio has raised more questions and doubts than answers. Mr Farouk Lawan says it is a doctored anti-climax”

Police uncover ‘baby factory’ in Rivers

PORT HARCOURT – POLICE in Rivers State have smashed a syndicate, that specialised in selling new babies. Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Mr Ben Ugwuegbulam, who confirmed the development to 3m360, said the Police arrested a husband and his wife involved in the illicit trade.

He said the two specialised in kidnapping girls and arranging for them to get pregnant, while they would hide the pregnant girls in their custody until they delivered.

Ugwuegbulam said the suspects confessed that as soon as the girls deliver, they would sell the babies. He said: “Rivers State Police Command had arrested one Chigozie John and his wife, Akwarama  and rescued three pregnant women held as captives in the suspects place or residence somewhere in Akpajo.

“On interrogation, the husband and wife confessed to the offence of trafficking in new babies and further admitted that the three pregnant women found in their house were procured to deliver babies that would be sold as soon as they were delivered of their babies.”

He added that investigation was on to unravel details of the operation of the suspects.

3rd Mainland Bridge: FG, Lagos to parley on new repair date

LAGOS – Federal Government, yesterday, said a new date for the commencement of repair of the Third Mainland Bridge would be announced soon.

It would be recalled that the repair on the bridge which was scheduled to commence on on Sunday, was postponed due to  logistic reasons by the government a day before.

Federal Comptroller of Works in Lagos, Mr. Ejike Mgbemena, at a briefing, said: “You will be informed when the project will commence between today (yesterday) and Tuesday (today). We will hold a briefing on Friday where the Minister of Works will brief you on the details.”

“The minister will be coming to Lagos on Thursday to meet with Lagos State governor on the project before a world press conference on Friday.”

He noted that this will douse the tension that the Federal Government was suspending repairs of the 22-year-old bridge indefinitely.

He, however, blamed the anxiety created over the project on the ineptitude of the contractor.  “What we were considering was first week of July not a specific day in July.”

The controller stated that the Federal Government will collaborate with the Lagos State Government to ensure a hitch-free repair.

Also speaking on the project, Lagos State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr. Aderemi Ibirogba, assured residents that the government would be working closely with the Federal Government to ensure that motorists experience minimal discomfort.

Ibirogba said the state government had effectively managed such issue of partial road closure through the joint efforts of the various state traffic control agencies before now, urging the residents not to panic whenever the government begins the repair.

He said: “There is no need to fear, it’s all about management, the government has done this before, and when we did it, we all remained calm, there were some little traffic, but we are better off now than where we were then.

“What the government did was to divert traffic to Funsho Williams Avenue (formerly Western Avenue),  Ikorodu Road and also through Murtala Muhammed Way, through Carter Bridge, Lagos Island and out.

Family celebrates Christy Essien-Igbokwe one year after

Family members and fans of the late Christy Essien-Igbokwe on Sunday, July 1, 2012 gathered at the Archbishop Vining Cathedral, Ikeja, in Lagos, for the one year remembrance-thanksgiving of the late singer.

The thanksgiving service which kicked off shortly after the Holy Communion service, saw friends and fans join the family members of the singer as they danced to the alter. A short prayer was rendered by Reverend C.K Olubodun, in appreciation of the life and works of the late singer and also for the life of her son, Chinwuba Igbokwe, who survived an armed robbery attack on  Sunday, April 22, 2012.

In a chat with NET, Christy Essien’s widower, Edwin Igbokwe  says ‘I am coping by the grace of God but it’s not been easy and it’s still not easy but we know that with God, everything is possible’.

When asked what he misses most about his late wife, he responds ‘There is no single thing I don’t miss. I miss her a lot, every moment of my life; I know I really miss her’.

Igbokwe tells us there are plans to continue with her foundation, which he announced has been renamed Christy Essien-Igbokwe Memorial Foundation.

The foundation, he says will carry on with her philanthropic activities and seek to help abandoned and disabled children.

The singer who died on Thursday, June 30, 2011 began her musical career at age 17 and released several albums including ‘Ever Liked My Person’ which was produced by Lemmy Jackson and released in 1981


Culled from the NET

Pastor Bakare Hits Harder: “Down, Down Jonathan”

Fiery Pastor Tunde Bakare, who was last week declared wanted by the State Investigation Bureau over a sermon proclaiming President Jonathan as determined to bankrupt Nigeria, today hit even harder in his latest sermon.
 
Mr. Bakare, who heads the Latter Rain Assembly, began on a musical note, imploring the congregation to join him in singing a popular Pentecostal retreat song that inserted “Jonathan” into the lyrics.
 
“Let us carry Jesus up and throw Jonathan away. Up, up Jesus; down, down Jonathan,” the pastor proclaimed, warming into his sermon this Sunday.
 
Wanted by the SIB over a recent sermon, Pastor Bakare told his congregation that the letter inviting him to attest to the rippling sermon he gave last week arrived while he was
away in Ukraine. He said he had defied the advice of many who counseled that he should not return when he was being sought by the government’s security department.
 
“I received lots of calls and I was advised not to come to Nigeria until Monday, but I have nothing [to hide],” Mr. Bakare announced, narrating his experience of last week.
 
The pastor also reacted to the news of a N25 billion lawsuit reportedly filed against him by a firm owned by oil magnate Femi Otedola over the pastor’s statement accusing Otedola of fraud in last week’s sermon.
 
“I am now in the country for anyone that is looking for me,” said Mr. Bakare, adding, “Let him bring his lawsuit so that we can put his integrity to the test.” Mr. Bakare stated, “He wants to see the lawyer in me.” 
 
Mr. Bakare also announced that his church was planning a prayer event for the nation this July, adding that the fraudulent party and people in power would be swept away for a new dawn in the nation, come Nigeria’s next national anniversary in October.
 
“I invite the South, the North, the East and the West on the 22nd of July to join us in sweeping off the frauds in the government of Nigeria. Only the foolish will wait for 2015 or 2020. We are throwing the corrupt people out of power. July will be intense for them, August will be more intense for them and September will be the darkest night that will usher in the new dawn for Nigeria,” he declared as he raised his voice. 
 
Last Sunday, Pastor Tunde Bakare had claimed in his sermon that President Goodluck Jonathan’s destiny was to run the nation bankrupt. The SIB had reportedly sought to invite Mr. Bakare for questioning, but he was away in Ukraine as the letter arrived. The SIB’s invitation has been widely perceived as an attempt to arrest and detain Pastor Bakare who was a vice presidential candidate to General Muhammadu Buhari (rtd).
 
Pastor Bakare gave assurances today that he did not flee the country to evade detectives, adding that he was back now and ready to receive those seeking him.

I Did Not Shun Jonathan, Anenih, Others ... Oba Of Benin

Omo N’ Oba N’ Edo , Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Erediuwa, has denied reports in some Blogs (Not Obehi Okoawo's Blog) and national dailies, which suggested on Sunday that he shunned  President Goodluck Jonathan, Chief Tony Anenih and other chieftains of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) during their visit to the Benin monarch at his palace.
Jonathan and other leaders of the PDP were in Benin City, the Edo State capital, for the governorship rally towards the July 14, 2012 governorship poll and was reported to have been shunned by the Benin monarch.
The monarch, while reacting in a press statement signed by the secretary to the Benin Traditional Council, Mr. Frank Irabor, described the report as mischievous.
“The attention of the Palace has been drawn to certain mischievous publications in some national newspapers on the recent visit to Oba’s palace by President Goodluck Jonathan. The palace would like to make it clear that the Benin monarch did not shun Mr. President and the PDP members that came to visit him,” the palace stated.
The Oba advised politicians to avoid violence in the forthcoming election, stressing that the meeting with the president by the monarch in his inner chamber was, indeed, a mark of respect and love for the president.
“It was respect for the monarch to see the president under the difficult circumstances.”
 “The public is reminded that, two weeks ago, the Omo N’ Oba waited for over two hours in his open office, where he received the vice-president, Dr. Namadi Sambo. The monarch uses the medium to advise politicians to shun violence in Edo State,” as politics should not be seen as a do-or-die affair, he added

Beyonce And Jay-Z Double Date With Kanye West And Kim Kardashian At BET Awards 2012 (PHOTOS)

KIM Kardashian and Beyoncé dispel rumours at this year’s BET Awards
Though this year’s BET Awards was jammed pack with celebs, all eyes fell to music icons Beyonce and Jay-Z when they arrived at Los Angeles’ Shine Auditorium to take their seats next to Jay’s Watch the Throne collaborator, Kanye West, and his girlfriend, Kim Kardashian

Kanye West And Pusha T Show Off Their 'New God Flow'

Nothing Kanye West does is by accident, so when Yeezy debuted a brand new a cappella verse at Sunday night's BET Awards, of course it was a sign of things to come. On Monday (July 2), 'Ye and Pusha T dropped "New God Flow," a single they have been teasing for the past week, and boy, was it worth the wait.
The track starts off with a vocal sample from Ghostface Killah's "Mighty Healthy" from his 2000 classic Supreme Clientele LP. "Shake that body, party that," the Wu-Tang Clansman is heard saying in the track's opening seconds.
Though the track for "New God Flow" is markedly different, like Ghost's "Mighty Healthy," it does sample its drums from Melvin Bliss' 1973 break record "Synthetic Substitution." Pusha, who has been on a tear lately, appearing on G.O.O.D. Music's "Mercy" and his own "Exodus 23:1," sets things off lyrically with a spirited verse. "I believe there's a God above me, I'm just the God of everything else/ I put holes in everything else, new God flow, f--- everything else," he rhymes.
In his verse, the Clipse MC references his drug-dealing past, vacations to Ibiza and exotic car collection. "Well, if you goin' coupe, I'm goin' four-door," he playfully spits, challenging Kanye.
In his second verse, Pusha baits all his competitors, though just like on "Exodus 23:1," they go unnamed. "Step on their necks till they can't breathe/ Claim they five stars, but sell your dreams," he starts off before he steps it up further, spitting "F--- 'em, 'Ye/ I wouldn't piss on that n---a with Grand Marnier."
Once Push gets all of his rap frustration off his chest, Kanye jumps in for the song's climactic third verse, the same one he performed at the 2012 BET Awards. "Hold up, I ain't tryna stunt, man/ But the Yeezys jumped over the Jumpman," he raps, referencing the popularity of his sneakers in comparison to the industry standard: the mighty Air Jordan.
Like on "Mercy," West commands a beat change for his bars. Three-quarters of the way through his closer, the dusty hip-hop track changes and takes on the characteristics of a stadium chant — think Queen's 1977 classic "We Will Rock You." "Did Moses not part the water with the cane?/ Did strippers not make an arc when I made it rain?/ Did Yeezy not get signed by Hov and Dame?/ And ran to Jacob to make the new Jesus chain," he asks in a rhetorical rhyme.
The truth is, Kanye cemented himself as a rap God way before releasing this new single, but just in case fans forgot, the "Jesus Walks" rapper turns musical water into wine with his "New God Flow."
What do you think of "New God Flow"? Let us know in the comments

Who Won At The 2012 BET Awards? Full Winners List

There were a few notable wins at Sunday night's BET Awards . Nicki Minaj and Chris Brown took home big trophies, but Kanye West and Jay-Z were certainly the talk of the town, both coming on stage to pick up a prize for Best Group. Check out the full list of winners below.
Beyoncé and husband Jay-Z collected two awards each. After Kanye West, the married duo topped the nominations list and mockingly duked it out for the night's big award, Video of the Year (the Throne won, and B playfully jabbed her husband when their name was called). Beyoncé was the second-most-nominated act of the night with six awards. Chris Brown also snagged two awards.
Centric Award
Common
Youngstars Award
Diggy
Best Group
The Throne (Jay-Z and Kanye West)
Best Actor
Kevin Hart, "Think Like a Man"
Best New Artist
Big Sean
Best Male R&B Artist
Chris Brown
Best Collaboration
Wale (featuring Miguel), "Lotus Flower Bomb"
Best Gospel
Yolanda Adams
Best Female R&B Artist
Beyoncé
Best Female Hip-Hop Artist
Nicki Minaj
Lifetime Achievement Award
Maze, featuring Frankie Beverly
Video of the Year
The Throne (Jay-Z and Kanye West), featuring Otis Redding, "Otis"
Humanitarian Award
The Reverend Al Sharpton
Viewers' Choice Award
Mindless Behavior
Video Director of the Year
Beyoncé and Alan Ferguson
Entertainer of the Year
Chris Brown

Chris Brown releases diss song for Drake, gets neck tattoo

Chris Brown’s new neck tattoo
Let the games begin! Chris Brown has taken the ‘bold step’ towards what we would like to call a forthcoming epic ‘war of words’ between himself and recent nemesis Drake by releasing a diss song for him.

The Pop/R&B singer has responded on record to the infamous club brawl with Drake which took place in June. Brown’s verse is featured on a remix of Chief Keef’s ‘I Don’t Like‘ song featuring Kanye West, Jadakiss, Pusha T and Big Sean and The Game.

Breezy raps;

‘They throwing’ bottles, I’m throwing’ models…. I be singing’, he be singing’, so it’s on sight….. Them eyebrows? Man, them shits is yikes / OVO, you overdose,screaming’ Y.O.L.O. though, I live twice!‘

Drake is yet to respond to the song.
Meanwhile Chris Brown continues to ink his body, filling every space that’s left with tattoos. The 23-year-old just got a huge neck tattoo done by Peter Koskela aka PeterTattooist. The tattoo is described as an ‘Indian chief transforming into a wolf’.

Police Accuse Oshiomhole Of Lying About Assasination Attempt

THE Edo State Police Command said yesterday that it has commenced investigation into the attack on the convoy of Governor Adams Oshiomhole Thursday night and the burning of the Police post by youths alleged to be students of the Institute of Management and Technology (IMT), Usen.

However, the State Government in a statement signed by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Mr Louis Odion, alleged thugs loyal to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state opened fire on the Governor’s convoy at about 6pm, shortly after he paid a visit to the Onogie of Usen, His Royal Highness Oluogbe 11,at his palace.
It stated however that “the brave security details attached to the governor, supported by an additional contingent of regular policemen deployed to maintain law and order, rose to the occasion. They were able to shield the governor, key government functionaries and ACN leaders. But several official vehicles including Toyota Land cruisers, Hilux pick up van and Toyota Corrola Saloon car were either badly damaged or riddled with bullet”.
The attack is coming barely two months after the Governor escaped death following the accident involving his convoy at Auchi, where three journalists in his convoy lost their lives.
However, the Police Command in a statement signed by its spokesman in the state, DSP Anthony Airhuoyo, narrated that “the governor went on campaign tour to Usen town in Ovia South West Council of Edo state, the governor while on his way to the campaign venue met the students and promised to address them on his way back.
After the campaign at about 6: 15pm, the governor decided to address them on a later date as it is already getting late.
But the students barricaded the high way at the outskirt of the town and were compelling the governor to visit their institution. When there demands could not be met, it became riotous. Throwing stones and missile at the governors convoy.
“In the process of dispersing the riotous students, two of them were injured and are currently receiving treatment.
No body was killed in the process. The students later regrouped and went to Usen Police out post and vandalized the place. However, investigation has commenced as the area is closely being monitored by the police” it stated.

Fans Slam Rihanna For Performing At A Show Few Hours After Her Grandmother’s Death

RIHANNA was today in mourning following the death of her beloved grandmother.
After losing a battle with cancer Dolly passed away in a New York hospital over the weekend.
The grieving chart-topper penned a tender tribute and posted a string of touching photos of the pair on Twitter.
But, unaware of the singer’s pain, Swedish fans slammed as shambolic her performance at a show in the country last night.
Performing just hours after learning of the tragedy, she is said to have turned up 45 minutes late at the Peace And Love Festival in the city of BorlÃnge.

In a string of angry tweets gig-goers accused the star of having been in no suitable condition to perform. 
Tender care ... Rihanna clasps Dolly's hands
One wrote: “Really don’t feel like watching Rihanna under the influence gig. Who the f*** allowed her on stage in this state?”
Better times ... Rihanna celebrates with grandparents

Another added: “Crowd walk-out from #Rihanna concert at #peaceandlove #pal12 #Sweden claiming she’s too high to sing properly.”

Rihanna has often used her Twitter account to speak warmly of Dolly – her mother’s mother

BET names Wizkid and Sarkodie ‘Best African Act’

It’s a tie between Wizkid and Sakordie!
Ayo ‘Wizkid’ Balogun has won the award for ‘Best International Act: Africa’ at the 2012 edition of the BET Awards!

The Nigerian pop act jointly won the award with Ghanaian rapper Sarkodie at the awards ceremony taking place at the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles, California on July 1, 2012.

The EME act and Sarkodie had faced tough competition from other nominees – Nigerian rapper Ice Prince, Kenyan Hip-Hop/R&B group Camp Mulla, South African singer Lira and French speaking Malian rapper Mokobe for the coveted Best African Act prize.
‘Thankful!‘, an excited Wizkid tweeted.
This isn’t the first time the Best African Act award will be jointly won. Last year, African pop giants D’banj and 2face came out tops and received a joint award prize in the same category.
Wizkid also won the MOBO prize for Best African act in 2011

The ‘gods’ stopped Oba of Benin from receiving Jonathan —Aide

President Goodluck Jonathan, state governors, chieftains of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and other top government officials received a rude shock in the ancient city of Benin on Saturday when the Oba of Benin, Omo N’Oba Erediauwa, declined to receive the president who was visiting his palace.
The president had arrived the Edo State capital for the grand rally of the state PDP ahead the July 14 governorship election and had been received at the Benin Airport earlier by Governor Adams Oshiomhole.
He, thereafter, proceeded to the monarch’s palace, but on taking his seat next to the oba’s throne, he was made to wait for about 15 minutes before a palace official announced to his delegation and the Bini chiefs that were also seated that the royal father would not be seeing him because of circumstances beyond his control.
However, the monarch’s  official added that the usual palace formalities would still be observed in the absence of the monarch, including prayers for the president and the distribution of cola nuts.
According to him, “because of circumstances beyond his control, the Oba cannot receive the president, but the normal procedures of prayer for our guest will still be carried out.”
President Jonathan, who was apparently taken aback by the announcement, looked calm as he simply lowered his gaze even as the palace official invited the most senior chief present to offer the prayers.
After the prayers, the palace official, again, announced that even though the Oba would not see the president in public, he would be willing to receive him alone in another section of the palace.
It was not immediately clear whether President Jonathan, who had removed his cap in line with Bini tradition to wait for the Oba,  later met the royal father alone despite security requirement which would have been against the president being alone outside the close monitoring of his body guards.
Even though, the palace did not reveal the reason for the monarch’s decision not to publicly welcome President Jonathan, sources in the palace volunteered that the traditional ruler was merely adhering to the dictates of the ‘gods’ who had made it impossible for him to appear in public to receive the president at that particular time.
Among those with the president in the palace, were Vice President Namadi Sambo, Governors Emmanuel Uduaghan (Delta), Idris Wada (Kogi) and Seriake Dickson (Bayelsa); top government officials and PDP chieftains, led by the National Chairman, Alhaji Bamanga Tukur, as well as former Acting National Chairman of the party, Alhaji Abubakar Kawu Baraje.
While speaking at the rally later in Ogbe Stadium Benin, President Jonathan, particularly, thanked the Esama of Benin, Chief Gabriel Igbinedion, who he referred to as a “power traditional chief,” and other traditional rulers who came to the stadium to give the PDP their royal blessings.
“Let me appreciate other traditional rulers that are here with us with the Esama of Benin for coming to give us the royal blessing,” he said.
He thanked the people of Edo State for their massive support for him before the last presidential election and assured that he would fulfil the promises he made to them during the campaign.
He specifically referred to a previous incident where the Oba of Benin refused to see former Minister of State for Works who was on official visit to Edo State on the grounds that government had done nothing about the poor state of roads in the state.
According to him, “before my election, one of my ministers, incidentally your own son, who was the Minister of State for Works, came to visit the Oba of Benin and the Oba said he didn’t want to see him because the roads are very bad.
“He got back to me and when I came for the campaign, I told the Oba, ‘don’t worry. After the election, my minister will come back.’ Luckily, the (present) Minister of Works is from Edo State.
“The last time the Minister of Works came to Edo State, when he went back, I asked him, ‘did the Oba receive you?’ He said, ‘yes, Oba even promised to send the president a gift.’
“Let me assure you, my good brothers and sisters from Edo State, that we will continue to keep faith with our electoral promises.”
President Jonathan remarked that he has used the first year of his administration to plan and strategise, but that government was now moving on.
While urging the people to vote for the PDP candidate, Major General Charles Airhiavbere, he pointed out that the “PDP is the dominant party. As long as you mobilise and vote, PDP will win.”
Edo State chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Dan Orbih, in his welcome speech, thanked President Jonathan for the “great transformation work of his administration in Nigeria,” just as he commended him for the Universal Basic Education (UBE) projects being executed in the state.
Orbih described the ruling Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) in the state as hypocrites who failed to practice what they preached, just as he thanked the president for being a true party man by coming to demonstrate his support for the Edo PDP and for the party’s candidate.
The state PDP, however, in an official statement, denied that the monarch did not receive the president.
Theparty said members of the ACN in the state had gone to town, shortly after President Jonathan’s visit to the Oba of Benin, before attending the PDP governorship rally, to spread what it described as “an untrue, wicked, mischievous and malicious lie” that the Benin monarch shunned the president and his entourage.
The state Publicity Secretary of the PDP, Mr. Matthew Urhoghide, in the statement issued on Saturday in Benin City, added that “at the palace, Oba Erediauwa, who, for reasons that the royal palace may explain at a later date, could not have a formal and open reception for the visiting president, most courteously invited the president to his inner sanctum where they both had a special meeting.
“The Oba’s invitation of President Jonathan into his very highly restricted bedchamber should have been seen for what it really is — a special meeting, the content and attendance of which was restricted only to the need-to-know.
“Not many non-Benin sons and daughters, in the history of the palace of the Oba of Benin, can claim to have been received in the special section where President Jonathan had audience with His Royal Majesty.
“Those who spread the wicked lie do our royal father grave wrong because Oba Erediauwa is reputed to be seeped in the observance of protocol, courtesy and decorum. A few weeks ago, he warmly received, Vice President Namadi Sambo and his entourage who were in Benin for the same reason as President Jonathan and paid a courtesy visit on him.”
The Edo PDP further said, “it is unthinkable that some people would claim that our revered royal father would openly refuse to see the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Those who spin this lie should stop for a minute to think of the damage such malicious lie would do to the image of the Benin Traditional Council.
Edo PDP cannot think of any twisted advantage they calculate to win from the lie.
“We are sure that the royal palace of the Oba of Benin will, at the appropriate time, officially correct this anomaly so that the good people of Edo State will be better informed.

CHRISTY ESSIEN IGBOKWE (It's One year today)

It is exactly a year when Nigeria's most successful Female artist passed away after a brief illness in Lagos, Nigeria can never forget the lady that brought so much joy to us with her acting and music. The family of the late songstress have decided to have a solemn memorial during the Sunday service at the Archbishop Vining Memorial Church Cathedral, Oba Akinjobi Way, G. R. A, Ikeja, Lagos on Sunday - July 1, 2012. She will be remembered forever in our hearts.

PROFILE (CV) OF THE LADY OF SONGS
NAME: Chief Dr (Mrs.) Christy Essien Igbokwe, MFR, FICA
STAGE NAMES: Christy Essien; Akpena; Lady of Songs
DATE OF BIRTH: November 11, 1960
ZODIAC SIGN: Scorpio
PLACE OF BIRTH: Okat, Onna LGA, Akwa Ibom State
FIRST MUSIC OUTING: Now Sound TV Programme on NTA, Aba (1976)
FIRST ACTING OUTING: New Masquerade TV Programme on NTA Aba (1976)
EARLY MUSICAL EFFORTS: At age 7; started dancing with drama groups in schools
MARITAL STATUS: Married at 19 to Chief Edwin Igbokwe (then General Manager of PUNCH newspapers). They have four children, all male.
HIT ALBUMS
1. Freedom - 1976
2. Patience - 1977
3. Time Waits For No One - 1978
4. One Understanding - 1979
5. Give Me A Chance - 1980
6. Ever Liked My Person - 1981
7. Taking My Time - 1986
8. It Is Time - 1988
9. Hear The Call - 1990
10. Mysteries Of Life - 1994



INTERNATIONAL AWARDS
1. “Silver Prize” Winner at 6th Seoul Songs Festival, South Korea – 1983
2. “Grand Prix “ Winner at Neewollah Music Festival at Independence, Kansas, USA – 1983
3. “International Special Achievement” Award of MUSEXPO, Acapulco, Mexico, 1983
4. “Certificate of Merit” Award for Song writing and composing at the 10th Annual American Songs Festival, Los Angeles, USA – 1983
5. “Audience Favourite” Award of International Music Festival at Baker University, USA – 1983
6. “Silver Prize” Winner at Second International Music Festival of Oklahoma University, USA – 1983
7. “Outstanding Performance” Award at the World Song Festival, L.A. Arts Academy, USA – 1984
8. “Distant Accord” Award at the FIDOF Festival in Hollywood, L.A., USA, 1990
9. Honorary Doctorate Degree (Honoris Causa) Award in Business Management by Cornerstone University & Theological Seminary, Jerusalem, Israel – 2010
10. Honorary Doctorate Degree (Honoris Causa) Award in Literature-in-Africa by University of Berkley, Chicago, Illinois, USA – 2010
LOCAL AND NATIONAL AWARDS
1. “Lady of Songs” by Nigerian Entertainment Writers – 1980
2. “Star Performer” Award of Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) – 1983
3. “Best Actress Runner-Up” Award for Excellence by silver Jubilee Committee of the Nigerian Television Organization of Nigeria (NTA) – 1984
4. “African Music Mother” Award by Music Extravaganza’84 in collaboration with African Music Development, New York, USA
5. “Adaha Onna” (Pillar of Onna LGA)
6. Akwa Ikwo Eket (The Greatest Singer from Eket Community) by Eket LGA Authority
7. Aha Nwanyi Ejiagamba 1 of Oru Ahiazu, Mbaise, Imo State
8. “Golden Voice of Africa” Award by music Students Association, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife
9. “Gold Award” of 25 Nigerian Celebrities – 1988
10. “Certificate of Honour” by the Nigerian Union of Journalists, Anambra State Council – 1990
11. “Certificate of Recognition” by National Film Festival – 1992
12. “Service to the Music Profession” Award by PMAN on platform of NIGERIAN MUSIC AWARD (to Christy Essien Igbokwe/Edwin Igbokwe) for their efforts in forming and creating PMAN - 1988
13. Special Musical Patents Decoration Award – 1994
14. “Merit Award for Excellence in the Field of Music Therapy” by Medical Association of Nigeria
15. “Award of Honour” by Nigeria Institute of Journalism Student’s Union, Ibadan Campus
16. “Certificate of Honour” in recognition of her role as a woman of substance and her excellent performance in musical entertainment by National Association of Akwa Ibom Students, University of Ibadan chapter.
17. “Grand Fellow of Nigerian Youths” by the Nigerian Youth Organization
18. “Queen of Music International” Award by the Association of Nigerian Theatre Arts Practitioners, Lagos State and Degbola International Promotions – 1996
19. “Outstanding Achievements Uplifting Female” Award by Youth Re-Orientation Movement – 1996
20. “Merit Award in Honour of Care for the Nigerian Child” by Broadway International School – 2000
21. “Award of Excellence and Outstanding Leadership Qualities” as PMAN first Female President -1998
22. “The Best Dressed Female Musician” Award in the Patriotic Dress category at the Nigeria Fashion Show – 1997
23. “Member of the Greatest Performers” Award in recognition of her immense contribution to the development and reformation of the world youths – 1996
24. “Award of Excellence” as Matron of the Great Eni-Njoku Hall (University of Lagos chapter – 2000
25. “Pacesetter Award” in recognition of her vision, initiator and organizer of the First ECOWAS Cultural and Musical Festival & the Entertainment Award – 1997
26. “Lover of Children” Award in recognition of her contribution towards child social and welfare development in the society – by legendary Page Boys Club (Socio-Cultural & Humanitarian Club)
27. “Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) by Federal Government of Nigeria – 1999
28. “Defender of Children” Award by Interclassic Youth Forum (a non-governmental organization)
29. “Outstanding Achievement in Entertainment Industry” Award by Top Celebrities Magazine -2010
30. “Merit Award for African Heritage” by The Gong African News Magazine - 2010
31. “Honorary Fellowship Award” by Institute of Corporate & Business Affairs Management, Nigeria.
32. “Nigerian Woman of Valor” Award by National Centre for Women Development, Abuja – 2010.
MATRONSHIP/EXTRA CURRICULA POSITIONS
1. Matron; Eni-Njoku Hall, University of Lagos
2. Matron; Akwa Ibom Journalists Forum, Kaduna
3. Matron; National Association of Akwa Ibom Students, University of Port Harcourt
4. Matron; Nigerian Youth Tourist Organization
5. Matron; National Association of Akwa Ibom Students, University of Lagos
6. Matron; Association of Beauty Therapy & Cosmetology of Nigeria, Lagos
7. Matron; Worldwide Twins and Multiple Foundation
8. Deputy Vice President/Vice Chairman, Governing Council of Institute of Corporate and Business Affairs Management, Nigeria.
POSTHUMOUS AWARDS
1. “Entertainment Icon” by West African Women in Leadership Conference (in Ghana) – 2011
2. “Excellence in Outstanding Performance & Hard Work” by National Association of Akwa Ibom State Students (NAAKISS) – University of Lagos Chapter – 2011
3. Top 100 Professionals 2012 – by International Biographical Centre, Cambridge, england
CHARITY PROGRAMMES
Her Charity programmes dated back to 1980 when she started championing the cause of the less privileged in our society especially the Nigerian Child. This is also evidenced in her works such as:
a. Show a Little Bit of Kindness
b. Do You Hear Me Children?
c. Seun Rere
d. Hear the Call
e. Onwegh Ihe Ka Nnwa Na Uwa (Nothing is greater than child)
In fact Royalty from the sales of her past albums remains directed towards charity projects and the needy in our society.
CHARITY AND TOURISM PROJECTS
The Lady of Songs has successfully and single-handedly pursued and executed charity projects in the following States in Nigeria
1. Adamawa State (then Gongola State); where she raised funds used by the State Government to fence, equip, renovate and provide drinkable water and main pump to the State’s only rehabilitation centre (at Jada) for the handicapped.
2. Rivers State; where she raised funds for the Catholic Children’s Home and Psychiatric School.
3. Enugu State (then old Anambra); where she fully equipped refectory for the School of the Blind, Deaf and Dumb, Ogbete, Enugu
4. Plateau Sate; where she raised funds through Command Performances to provide scholarship endowment fund for able-bodied and handicapped children of the State origin.
5. Dedication of all proceeds from her tenth album to Essential Childcare Foundation’s coffer.
6. She has scores of students under her scholarship studying in various institutions within the country (Nigeria).
7. Her Charity work does not stop in Nigeria
a. In Liberia before the civil war, she (considering how popular she was there) was the guest of that country’s government; to raise fund for improvement of the only television organization (then) during President Samuel Doe’s tenure.
b. In Ghana where she was invited to raise fund and also launch potential Tourism in Ghana that is still booming till today. This was in 1994.
ON-GOING CHARITY PROJECT PURSUIT
Christy was engaged in a Child care programme she tagged “Essential Childcare Foundation”. This project kicked off in 1992 with a National Dialogue involving Nigeria’s distinguished Speakers. Today she is tirelessly putting finishing touches towards the establishment of a “Half-Way-Home” – centre for missing and mentally retarded children. For these, a Trust Fund from the Essential Childcare Foundation has already been put in place. The Essential Childcare Foundation was legally registered and launched on April 30, 1994 with eminent personalities as members of the Board of Trustees. They are successful industrialists and professionals – Chief Abdulaziz C. Ude (Chairman), former Information Minister, Chief Tony Momoh (Vice-Chairman), late Dr. Simi Johnson (General Secretary), Dr. Muktar Bello (Auditor), Engineer (Mrs.) Comfort Ponnle (Treasurer), Mrs. Njideka Ezeife, Chief Austin Izagbo, former Chief (Mrs.) Helen Esuene and Chief (Mrs.) Christy Essien Igbokwe (Publicity/Welfare Officer). Now her legacy lives on through her foundation CHRISTY ESSIEN IGBOKWE MEMORIAL FOUNDATION which has been put up to continue her charity works. This foundation will continue her dream of building her HALF WAY HOME, a project which she embarked on b4 her death. This home is going to cater for the physically challenged, mentally disturbed and the abandoned in our society. This foundation hopes to fulfill this dream and go beyond.
SOME OF HER OTHER OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENTS
1. FORMATION OF PMAN: With her ideas and husband’s support, she recorded the feat as the brain behind the formation of the only recognized national (union) body for musicians in the country aptly called Performing Musicians Employers Association of Nigeria (PMAN) in 1982. It is meant to cater for the welfare and protection of Nigerian musicians and their rights, nationally and internationally. When the Union was heading for extinction, she was dragged to head it so as to revive her baby. This culminated in her serving as PMAN President for two terms and remains, till date, the only female so far to have headed a trade union in Nigeria.
2. FORMATION OF PMRS (now COSON): She is a founding member of the Performing and Mechanical Rights Society (PMRS) of Nigeria and was the Chairman of the Board for two consecutive terms; becoming the second female to head the Society – after Chief (Mrs.) Keji Okunowo. The society is majorly concerned with the general responsibility of negotiating, collecting and distributing royalties on behalf of musical copyright owners who are mostly its members.
3. ABROGATION OF OFFSHORE/ONSHORE OIL DICHOTOMY: It is on record that what the littoral State in Nigeria are enjoying today is as a result of the abrogation of the obnoxious onshore and offshore oil dichotomy which was made possible by God through Christy’s final push. She mounted campaign of persuasion that saw the regime of General Ibrahim Badamosi Babangida initiate and abrogate the dichotomy; thereby putting paid to the struggle that lasted decades.
4. SUSTAINED EXISTENCE OF THE FRSC: It was through her interventional effort that the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) remains today as separate entity. When it was planned for scrapping or merging with the Nigeria Police Force, she brought pressure to bear on the federal government and thus the FRSC was spared till today. This again was during the tenure of Military President Ibrahim Babangida.
5. PRIVATE TELEPHONY: It is a fact that granting license for the private telephony started from the regime of late General Sani Abacha. Christy had to intervene by pushing forward the idea that the world is fast changing in telecommunication. The idea came to her when a private telephone company (EMIS) that had its equipment and staff ready approached her with their predicament as a result of license denial. She fought this and thus EMIS became the first privately licensed telecommunication company; others then followed with ease.
HER BUSINESS EMPIRE
This has spanned over years now. She is the Group Managing Director of her family’s group of Companies – Chuduak Limited, Sountrain Entertainment Limited, Chuduak Graphic Machinery Limited, Eagle Graphic Equipment Limited, Chuduak Properties, etc.

What really happened on the day DJ Tee stabbed me – Alvin Osungade

After compressing his thoughts in 140 characters on Twitter yesterday, Tolani Alvin Osungade has gone ahead to write a more explicit recap of what really happened between him and ace music video director, DJ Tee. Here’s the letter he allegedly sent to popular blogger,
My name is Tolani Alvin Osungade, and this is what really happened between Dj Tee and I…… Firstly, the video shoot was suppose to start @ 10am and I was there to support my friend “malcoholic” the owner of the video shoot. He (malcoholic) told to me invite friends (video girls and guys) which I did. The video shoot did not start early because it rained and the location was being cleaned. And due to the fact that the shoot didn’t start on time, people were having refreshments, guys were drinking (including dj tee and his crew). As this was going on, comments were going round that dj tee just insulted some girls I don’t know due to them asking for payment to be in the video and i also heard dj tee was going to call his own people to come and replace them.

Finally, my friends came by 5:30pm, and when they came and saw the set up they made their thoughts known to me that they don’t do videos for free but they were being insulted by some guys I don’t know myself but there was no fight and I did my best to calm them down and they decided to stay. My brother (Dolapo) came by 6pm with his friend, and Dolapo immediately made it clear to me that he didnt like the set up (the environment) as well and was going to leave in a bit. But I told him to stay just to support Malcoholic and he said “the only reason he’s staying was because of me”, and my invited friends also said the same thing because they were all tired of waiting and the video shoot had still not started since 1pm. Finally, the shoot started @ 7:30 and dj tee started calling people to come on set but there was little response due to people being tired from waiting all day then Dj started getting aggressive, his voice was getting louder, I was actually part of the first 5 to go on set and my brother (Dolapo) came along with me without his friend making us 6, few mins later, almost everybody joined. Some minutes later, I saw dolapo’s friend walking away and I asked her where she was going and she only pointed at dj tee and she said he just insulted her and she was leaving, while this was going on, dj tee was lashing out at the people that were not on set yet, in his words “get these bitches out, get these bitches downstairs”, Dolapo’s friend was leaving the set then dj tee asked her what was wrong?

Sincerely speaking, I didn’t hear her response but dj tee was speaking loud so I heard him say “bitch” and people went there to find out what the problem was. I didnt go with them because I was still on set and Kaffy (the dancer) was already coordinating us but I was looking towards that direction. Then I started hearing noise like a fight was going on and people were saying “dj tee leave him” and I also heard “Dolapo go” then I knew it was dj tee and my brother , then I went there. On getting there, the stairs was blocked and I could not see him and just wanted to get there to be sure he was ok and get him out because dj tee was saying “awon eruku mi da” in english “where are my thugs” “don’t let him go, he must not leave this place alive” because he claimed dolapo slapped him so he was saying “do you know who I am, how dare you” and he kept on ranting “I’ll kill you” “don’t let him go, he must not leave here alive” while dj tee was trying to get to him in person. My sister was begging him and telling him “dj tee, he’s my brother, please leave him” and to get his attention, she threw an empty fanta can drink at dj tee then he and his boys looked but paid her no attention.

I struggled my way out finally and I saw Dolapo practically running out and dj tee was chasing him and he instructed them to lock the gate and he then said to his boys “efo igo nibeyen, gbogbo igo ti eba ri, efo, ki e gun” in english “break bottles, find him and stab him” and his boys did as instructed and asked for permission to kill him (Dolapo) and dj tee said “yes, stab him”. Dj tee found him, tried to beat him but he was being held back, then he saw a bottle on the floor, picked up and broke it, dolapo’s female friend saw this and she went to plead with him and he pushed her into a gutter and looked away and was trying to go back to Dolapo with the broken bottle then I started pleading with him and he was shooting me dirty looks and he was saying “ti iwo oba kuro ni waju mi, ma te oju e mole” in english (get out of my way before I hurt you) .Still trying attack Dolapo, I still pleaded with him, then he stabbed my head and just walked away like it was nothing. Soaked in blood, I was still looking for Dolapo but didnt know he had been informed to run because dj tee had broken a bottle and was still looking for him. My sister saw me bleeding and she tried getting me out of the place with help of mr Dele (owner of d location).

As we we’re running out, dj tee and his boys were still coming after us with sticks and bottles and dj tee was still saying “kill him don’t let him go”. We got to the gate and it was locked so they caught up with us, seeing that I was already bleeding, I was ignored and dj tee and his boys then faced my sister (Bolaji) and beat her up. She was pleading and still getting beaten and threatened added that “if she is asked about the incident, she should say I fell on a bottle”Then the mr Dele (owner of the venue) ordered the gatement to open the gate because I had to be rushed to a hospital then we were let out. Dj tee and his boys vandalized a family friends car who came to support as well because he was also pleading with dj tee and his boys to let Dolapo go. I remember dj tee saying “I will kill you, I can do this and get away with it, you are too small to me, do you know who I am in this industry”…

In addition, I am not looking for cheap publicity neither am i trying to slander anybody’s name or image, I am from a very respectable home and background and this is known to all. This is just very painful because people are saying all sorts and nobody has an idea of what i’m going through, I’ve been scared for life whether Dj Tee gets punished for this crime or not, I am not after a pity party but the fact that Dj Tee thinks that he is untouchable and can get away with this is why my family is enraged and will make sure this ends here, and quoting what i wrote on my twitter page earlier “I’ve never been aggressive about anything in my life and neither do I cause trouble, @adetokunbodjtee, you took advantage of my youth, justice will be done” I’m deeply disappointed if this is how someone who calls himself a public figure acts or treats the public.

Lauryn Hill Pleads Guilty to Tax Evasion

Lauryn Hill recently made a return to music and the former Fugees frontwoman is now facing three years in prison.
According to TMZ, Hill admitted in a court of law to intentionally failing to file several tax returns in the past decade which can lead to jail time and $75,000 in fines.
The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill songstress pled guilty Friday (June 29) to three counts of failure to file tax returns for the years of 2005, 2006 and 2007, during which time she earned more than $1.8 million. When the judge asked Hill if she "intentionally and willingly" failed to file the returns, which is considered a federal crime, she replied, "Yes."
Hill was released on $150,000 bail. Her sentencing hearing is set for November.
In related news, L-Boogie recently penned an open letter to her fans on her Tumblr page in which she explained to her fans why she didn't pay taxes for three years. She wrote:
"I did not deliberately abandon my fans, nor did I deliberately abandon any responsibilities, but I did however put my safety, health and freedom andthe freedom, safety and health of my family first over allother material concerns!I also embraced my right to resist a systemintentionally opposing my right to whole and integral survival.
I conveyed all of this when questioned as to why I did not file taxes during this time period.Obviously, the danger I faced was not accepted as reasonable grounds for deferring my tax payments, as authorities, who despite being told all of this, still chose to pursue action against me, as opposed to finding an alternative solution.
My intention has always been to get this situation rectified. When I was working consistently without being affected by the interferences mentioned above, I filed and paid my taxes.This only stopped when it was necessary to withdraw from society, in order to guarantee the safety and well-being of myself and my family.
As this, and other areas of issue are resolved and set straight, I am able to get back to doing what I should be doing, the way it should be done.This is part of that process.To those supporters who were told that I abandoned them, that is untrue.I abandoned greed, corruption, and compromise, never you, and never the artistic gifts and abilitiesthat sustained me."

Jay-Z Loses Guinness World Record

Men lie. Women lie. Numbers don't and the numbers now show that Jay-Z no longer holds the Guinness World Record for the most live concerts performed in 24 hours in different locations.
The Flaming Lips now hold the world record after performing in eight different cities, one more than Jigga.
As a part of "The Hangar Tour," Hova set the record in November of 2006, the same month he dropped Kingdom Come, by performing in seven different cities which were Atlanta, Philadelphia, Washington D.C., New York, Chicago, Los Angeles and Las Vegas, in that specific order.
"History in the making, part 18," Jay stated at 5:58 a.m. in Atlanta, back in 2006, as reported by MTV News. Then after hitting the stage at 6:19 a.m., Hova said to the crowd, "This is a moment in time. It's more than history."
"I'm crazy," Jigga replied, in 2006, when asked by Shaheem Reid, now XXL's Editor-at-Large, why he wanted to complete the remarkable task. "I'm trying to bring some excitement back to the game."
By the same token, the Lips' frontman Wayne Coyne was not too interested in being a part of the Guinness Book of World Records. However, after he and his fellow rockers made it to New Orleans for the final show of the day with close to an hour to work with, Coyne referred to the feat as an "absurd joy."
Jay seemed to feel a similar joy when he first set the world record all those years ago. "We did it!" Hova yelled to his entourage after wrapping up The Hangar Tour in Las Vegas.

Music Director DJ Tee Denies Stabbing Upcoming Act On Set (PHOTOS)

                                                           
The top music director claims he didn't stab anyone, contrary to the news making the rounds that he stabbed an extra on set of a video shoot last night. According to his side of the story, the guy in question slapped him after they had an argument on set, and some of his boys who witnessed the assault descended on the guy.  DJ Tee took to twitter this morning to clear the air. See his tweet below:

The extra, who is an up and coming singer himself, according to DJ Tee, smashed a bottle against hard metal above their heads, the bottle shattered and broken pieces cut him and DJ Tee, which was how he supposedly got the injury you see below:
The injured guy, Alvin Osungade, is yet to tell his own side of the story.

The Man Who Donated A Church To President Jonathan's Home-Town Dies Of Depression

The controversial Church
Domenico Gitto, the owner of Gitto Construzioni Generali Nigeria Limited, the company which donated the controversial Church to Otueke, President Jonathan's home town in Bayelsa, is dead.
Mr. Gitto, died in Nigeria today in yet unclear circumstances.
Sources close to the Italian businessman however say he has been troubled for sometime owing to the huge debt piled up by his company in Nigerian banks.

"The company has been having legal battles with many Nigerian banks over failed debts it owes," a source said.

Union bank, said to be the largest creditor of Gitto is owed N10billion naira and is reported to have seized some of the company's heavy equipment it uses for construction. 

Gitto is also said to owe Diamond bank N6billion naira, a matter which has led the bank taking the company to court.

A third bank, FCMB, had written to the Federal Ministry of Works asking that all money to be paid Gitto by the ministry be paid to the bank, over a N5billion debt owed it.

It is not clear if Gitto agreed to build the "church gift" edifice in Otueke in order to curry favours from President Goodluck Jonathan and probably be able to pay its debt.  
Mr. Jonathan had said, while commissioning the Church, that he simply mentioned the idea of the old dilapidated Church to Mr. Gitto before the latter decided to build the modern edifice.

Pastor Runs Mad While Praying For Mad Man

PEOPLE living at Oke-Ado area of Ibadan, Oyo State, as well as shop owners and automobile dealers along Molete road in the town, on Thursday, watched a drama involving a pastor and a mad man.
The pastor, whose name is Timothy, according to an eyewitness, got to Ososami junctions of Oke-Ado around 5.20 p.m and went to meet the mentally-deranged man, popularly known as Tunde, who was sitting in front of a building in the area.

According to Semiu, a shop owner around the spot of the incident, the pastor began to read the Bible on sighting the mad man, while he moved closer to him and laid the hand on his head.
“At a point, there was a hot argument between the duo, which made the pastor to raise his voice as he was offering a deliverance prayer for Tunde, the mad man. The hot prayer lasted for over 15 minutes before another strange drama began,” Semiu told the Nigerian Tribune.
Speaking further, another witness, an okada rider, said at a point, the mad man removed the pastor’s hand from his head, adding that “suddenly, a strange spirit got hold of the pastor and he began to remove his cloth. He was naked and laid flat on the ground, speaking a strange language, with foam oozing out of his mouth.”
The mad man, it was gathered, initially left him in this position and sat at some distance away from the pastor, before the duo later sat closer to each other, while onlookers watched the strange drama.
The pastor remained in state of insanity until the Nigerian Tribune left the scene of the incident.

Tom Cruise, Katie Holmes split after five years

LOS ANGELES — Fairytale Hollywood couple Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes announced they were calling it quits after five years of marriage, ending an unexpected love story dogged by tabloid rumors.
"Kate has filed for divorce and Tom is deeply saddened and is concentrating on his three children," Amanda Lundberg, Cruise's representative, told AFP on Friday. "Please allow them their privacy to work this out."
"This is a personal and private matter for Katie and her family," said Jonathan Wolfe, the attorney representing Holmes. "Katie's primary concern remains, as it always has been, her daughter's best interest."
Cruise, who turns 50 on Tuesday, wed Holmes, 33, in a storybook Italian castle in November 2006 after declaring his love for the former "Dawson's Creek" star live on "Oprah" -- famously hopping on a couch in the studio.
It was Holmes's first marriage and Cruise's third. They have a six-year-old daughter, Suri.
The "TomKat" split comes just 10 days after the "amicable" parting of US actor Johnny Depp and French singer/actress Vanessa Paradis, and will doubtless lead to renewed chatter about the pressures on Hollywood couples.
Holmes has admitted to having a teenage crush on Cruise, even saying she had put up a poster of the "Top Gun" star in her bedroom.
After a whirlwind courtship that culminated in a proposal under the Eiffel Tower in June 2005, what followed resembled a fairytale -- at first.
Fireworks lit up the night sky above the 15th-century Odescalchi castle near Rome when Cruise and Holmes tied the knot on November 18, 2006.
Glitterati from the worlds of cinema, sports and music were on hand at the sprawling estate perched above the lakeside town of Bracciano as Holmes offered her hand to the "Mission Impossible" star, who has three Oscar nominations.
Italian media reported that American Scientology leader David Miscavige officiated at the event, arguably the most high-profile Scientology wedding to date, in a ceremony that lasted no more than 15 minutes.
Reports at the time said that under the prenuptial agreement, Holmes -- who converted to Scientology -- would receive $3 million for every year of the marriage plus ownership of a California mansion if they split.
But it remains to be seen how the stylish, dark-haired duo -- often snapped at glittery events alongside soccer star David Beckham and his wife Victoria -- will handle the custody of their daughter, who has been called one of Hollywood's most fashionable youngsters.
According to the website TMZ.com, Holmes wants sole custody.
Citing unnamed sources, the website claims Holmes filed for divorce mainly over Cruise's ties to Scientology, "fearing that Tom would drag Suri deep into the church."
"We're told the couple had been arguing over Suri -- that she's now of the age where Scientology becomes a significant part of her life," it said.
Tabloids, shadowing the couple since the get-go, have speculated for some time that the relationship was on the rocks after the pair was not seen together for months. Cruise has also won two lawsuits alleging he is gay.
In an interview with Playboy magazine in May, Cruise said he would be spending his birthday shooting a film in Iceland -- without his significant other.
"My family, my wife, they understand. It's who I am," he said.
Addressing rumors about his private life, he added: "You just have to keep going and remember that. The other stuff? I hear it, I read it, I get it. But life is not a matter of trying to prove anything to anybody."
Born in New York state in 1962, Cruise was raised by his mother and barely knew his father who left early on. That didn't change his feelings about family.
"I always wanted to be a father, a husband," he told Playboy.
Cruise, still one of Hollywood's most bankable stars as shown by recent box office smash "Mission: Impossible - Ghost Protocol," was married to Australian actress Nicole Kidman from 1990 to 2001. The couple had two adopted children, 19-year-old Isabella and 17-year-old Connor.
He was also married to American actress Mimi Rogers from 1987 to 1990 and had a three-year relationship with Spanish star Penelope Cruz after splitting up with Kidman.
Holmes, who was born and raised in Ohio, appeared in "Batman Begins" (2005) and starred alongside Adam Sandler in the critically panned 2011 romantic comedy "Jack and Jill."
News of the divorce set off an avalanche of messages on Twitter, many sarcastic in nature.
"Mimi Rogers 1956; Nicole Kidman 1967; Katie Holmes 1978 - my supercomputer analysis says Tom Cruise's next wife was born in 1989," said one, signed HAL_9000.

Top DJs For Jimmy’s Jump Off

On 1 July, all roads will lead to Get Arena, Lekki, Lagos, as iconic DJ, Jimmy Jatt will be hosting his popular annual show, Jimmy’s Jump Off for the third year.
This year’s edition of the popular gig is planned to be bigger and better with loads of surprises and performances by top Nigerian artistes and top flight DJs from radio, club and concert circuits.
The heavy weight list of DJs on the bill include; DJ Waxxy, DJ Xclusive, DJ Neptune, DJ Humility, DJ Spinall, DJ Caise, DJ Sose, DJ Tony Blaze, DJ Xgee, DJ Snoop da Damager and DJ Big N.
Jimmy’s Jump Off is the platform on which Jimmy Jatt brings top performers together to offer eclectic and undiluted fun to his fans and fun lovers. The show has come to feature prominently in annual entertainment calendar in the country and has gathered cult-like following within and outside of the country.