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Senate Showdown: The Recall Battle of Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan

Our Reporters3 days ago3 days ago08 mins

Few political observers are surprised by how an in-chamber disagreement over Senate seat rearrangements has escalated into a recall process against Senator Natasha Akpoti Uduaghan, along with allegations of sexual harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio. Internationally, this situation is increasingly seen as an orchestrated effort to deny a woman justice for speaking out. The controversy began when the Kogi Central Senator protested a perceived breach of her privileges after her seat was changed without prior notice. She alleged that this move was part of a broader scheme to undermine her legislative effectiveness and deny her constituents proper representation. Frustrated, she voiced her concerns on a radio station in Abuja and later on television, where she accused Senate President Akpabio of making sexual advances toward her. Akpabio swiftly denied the allegations, while his wife, Nnoma, escalated matters by filing a defamation lawsuit against Natasha in the Federal High Court. In response to Natasha’s actions, the Senate revisited the events of February 20 and the controversy surrounding the seat rearrangement. The result was a six-month suspension for Natasha. Claiming injustice and lack of due process, she sought international attention by allegedly attending a meeting of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) in New York, where she lodged her complaint against Akpabio. However, the Senate viewed her presence at the IPU meeting as a violation of protocol. Senator Jimoh Ibrahim, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Inter-Parliamentary Affairs, stated that Natasha had no official authorization to attend or speak at the session. He further explained that the IPU only considers petitions from member states, not individuals, rendering Natasha’s complaint baseless in that forum. As tensions mounted, Natasha claimed the Senate was planning to arrest her upon her return to Nigeria. While the veracity of this claim remains uncertain, she has taken her story to international media outlets such as Sky News and the British Television Network, where she emotionally recounted her allegations against Akpabio. Meanwhile, back home, discontent within Natasha’s constituency grew. Reports surfaced that her constituents were gathering voter signatures to initiate a recall process. While some dismissed the move as unrealistic, others argued that Natasha needed support, not a recall, during this tumultuous period. Despite conspiracy theories surrounding the process, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) confirmed receiving over 250,000 signatures from Natasha’s constituents and formally notified her of the recall attempt. Through her lawyer, Victor Giwa, Natasha accused INEC of bias, arguing that the commission had initially deemed the petition defective due to missing contact information and other formalities but later chose to act on it. An investigation revealed sharp divisions among her supporters. While Natasha previously enjoyed broad support within her constituency, many now appear to have distanced themselves from her due to the fallout from her confrontation with the Senate. Who is Natasha? Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan was relatively unknown in Kogi Central during her childhood. She returned in 2000 to undertake philanthropic projects before entering politics. According to retired schoolteacher Mrs. Fati Amodu, Natasha was academically gifted but not widely recognized beyond her immediate community. To her loyal supporters, she embodies resilience and progress. They see her as following in the footsteps of her late father, Dr. Jimoh Abdul Akpoti, who was known for his medical practice and community service. They admire her as a role model for overcoming adversity and breaking barriers for women in politics. Her critics, however, see her as overly ambitious, lacking diplomatic finesse, and unable to navigate political challenges maturely. Criticism of her personal life has also surfaced, with detractors pointing to her two failed marriages. Supporters counter that divorce is common and should not define her. Mr. Ganiyu Aliyu, a constituent, noted that Natasha’s first marriage was to Oseni Saliu, a cousin of Bishop Haruna Yakubu, but ended due to alleged abuse. Her second marriage to Saka Babamba also ended under undisclosed circumstances. She is now married to High Chief Emmanuel Oritsejolomi Uduaghan, a union that many see as a testament to her resilience. Public opinion remains divided. Some argue that Natasha has been an exceptional representative and that her recall would be unjust. Others believe the controversy surrounding her has become too distracting and that her time in the Senate should come to an end. At her family home in Obeiba-Ihima, life goes on as usual. A close relative remarked, “Our daughter has tried. If they want to remove her, let her come back home. God knows everything, and our people know she has been good to them.” The debate about Natasha’s fate has shifted from private discussions to public discourse, with both sides expressing their views freely on social and traditional media. One of her constituents, Victor Daniel, posted on Facebook, “I’m deeply sentimental about Natasha. She’s not just my Senator – she’s from my village, and we come from the same clan.” Whether Natasha’s political career survives this storm remains to be seen. For now, she continues to fight against what she perceives as injustice, while her critics push forward with efforts to see her recalled from the Senate.

Ganduje Assures Nigerians Won’t Regret Tinubu’s Leadership

Our Reporters3 days ago3 days ago03 mins

The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, has assured Nigerians that they will not regret voting for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the end of his first term. In a goodwill message sent by his Chief Press Secretary, Edwin Olofu, Ganduje congratulated the Muslim Ummah on the celebration of Eid-El-Fitr in Abuja on Sunday. The former Kano Governor urged Nigerians, especially the Muslim Ummah, to pray for President Tinubu’s success in overcoming the country’s economic challenges and addressing ongoing security issues, assuring that “Nigerians will not regret voting for President Tinubu after his first tenure.” The APC Chairman, who commended Nigerians for their unwavering support for President’s Renewed Hope Agenda, reaffirmed the APC-led government’s commitment to improving the welfare and well-being of all citizens. He however reminded Nigerians that as the country continue on its path of growth, everyone should remain steadfast in promoting unity, peace, and national progress. He congratulated the Muslim Ummah in Nigeria and across the world on the joyous occasion of Eid-el-Fitr, marking the successful completion of the holy month of Ramadan. Rejoicing with them for the spiritual renewal and discipline attained during the sacred month of fasting, prayer, and devotion to Almighty Allah, Ganduje urged the faithful to uphold the virtues of piety, selflessness, and compassion that Ramadan represents, while also extending love and kindness to one another, especially the less privileged in society. He emphasised that “the lessons of Ramadan—patience, sacrifice, and perseverance—are essential in fostering harmony and strengthening the nation’s democratic institutions.” The Chairman prayed that Almighty Allah (SWT) accepts the prayers and sacrifices of the Muslim Ummah and grants them abundant blessings in this season of celebration.

How to Grow & Increase Height?

Our Reporters4 days ago4 days ago07 mins

Genetics largely determines height, but nutrition, sleep, and exercise can help maximize growth. Growth plates fuse after adolescence, limiting further height increase. However, these exercises can improve posture and flexibility, enhancing overall appearance. JoggingJogging is an effective activity for toning your legs and strengthening your bones. It is especially beneficial during puberty. This exercise involves moderate running at a steady pace for an extended period. Forward Spine StretchThis seated workout helps improve posture and may contribute to height growth. Sit up straight with your legs extended in front of you. Keep them together or maintain a shoulder-width gap. Inhale, stretch your arms forward, and try to touch your toes. Perform 3–4 sets, holding each stretch for 10-15 seconds to enhance spinal flexibility. Jump SquatsJump squats are excellent for strengthening joints and muscles, aiding in height growth. Start by standing upright. Squat down, bringing your knees to your chest while lowering your hips. Push off with your legs as you jump up. Repeat this movement to improve flexibility and strength. Bar HangingHanging from a bar helps stretch the lower torso and reduces vertebral compression, which may aid in height increase. Use a sturdy bar set at least seven feet high. Hang with your arms extended and hold the position for 20 seconds. Perform this exercise 3–4 times daily. For added variation, wrap your legs over the bar while hanging upside down. Cobra StretchAlso known as Bhujangasana in yoga, this stretch helps in cartilage growth between vertebrae. Lie flat on your stomach with your legs extended. Inhale deeply, lift your chest and abdomen, and support your weight on your palms. Hold for 30 seconds before exhaling. Repeat 4–5 times daily. This stretch also promotes better blood circulation and oxygen flow. Wall StretchThis exercise engages the calf muscles and improves flexibility. Place your hands against a wall, keeping your right leg forward with knees slightly bent. Extend your left leg backward and press down on your toes for a deep stretch. Dry Land SwimmingA great alternative to swimming, this exercise mimics freestyle strokes. Alternate moving your arms and legs for about 20 seconds per repetition. This targets the lower back and thigh muscles, stimulating cell growth. Pelvic LiftThis exercise enhances spinal flexibility and strengthens the lower back. Lie flat with bent knees and feet shoulder-width apart. Push down on your feet while raising your hips to form a bridge. Lower your hips slowly and repeat. This exercise is also beneficial for relieving back stiffness from prolonged sitting. Alternate Leg KickAdapted from Tae Kwon Do, this high-intensity exercise mimics a cycling motion. Stand upright, bring one knee to your chest, then kick forward without touching the ground in between movements. It helps balance body mass while strengthening thighs. Pilates Roll OverPilates is excellent for spinal stretching. Lie on your back with arms at your sides and palms facing downward. Lift your legs over your head until they are parallel to the ground. This may feel intense but is effective in stretching vertebrae. Low Lunge ArchThis stretch tones the upper body and improves flexibility. Kneel on one leg while extending the other forward. Raise your hands in a Namaskar position and hold the pose. Switch sides to balance the stretch. This also enhances shoulder and leg flexibility. Side StretchThis exercise strengthens intercostal muscles, contributing to height growth. Stand straight, clasp your hands at your sides, and bend your upper body to the right and then to the left. Hold each stretch for 10 seconds and repeat in sets of 10. Mermaid StretchThis exercise improves posture by strengthening intercostal muscles. Sit with your legs folded to the left, holding your left ankle with your left hand. Raise your right arm overhead and stretch to the left. Hold for 20–30 seconds before switching sides. Puppy PoseThis pose lengthens the spine and strengthens the legs. Start on all fours, keeping your hands shoulder-width apart. Extend your arms forward and stretch your hips back. Hold the position for about 60 seconds. Downward Facing DogThis yoga pose strengthens back muscles and enhances flexibility. Start on all fours, keep your feet hip-width apart, and hands at shoulder-width. Push your tailbone upwards while pressing your hands firmly against the ground for a deep stretch.

Max Air Resumes Domestic Flight Operations

Our Reporters7 days ago7 days ago02 mins

Max Air is pleased to announce the resumption of its domestic flight operations following a successful internal operational evaluation. Effective from 21st March 2025, we are back in service, ready to provide our esteemed passengers with safe, reliable, and top-quality air travel across Nigeria.This strategic pause allowed us to reinforce our commitment to safety, compliance, and operational excellence. During this period, we worked closely with aviation authorities to ensure that all statutory requirements were met while enhancing our service delivery standards.As we return to the skies, passengers can expect improved travel experiences, increased efficiency, and the unwavering hospitality that Max Air is known for. We sincerely appreciate the patience and support of our valued customers during the temporary suspension.All previously booked passengers whose flights were affected will be given priority rebooking options. Our customer service team is available to assist with inquiries and reservations.For flight schedules, bookings, and more updates, visit our website and follow our verified social media channels. We are excited to welcome you back on board!Signed, Management@fx@maxairltd

Jimi Agbaje buries mother in Lagos

Our Reporters1 week ago1 week ago05 mins

On a somber day in Abuja, President Bola Tinubu reached out with a heartfelt message of condolence that reverberated across Nigeria. The occasion was the passing of Mrs. Margaret Agbaje, a woman whose life had woven a rich tapestry of influence through education, faith, and community leadership. She departed this world on March 5, leaving behind a legacy cherished by her sons, Jimi and Segun Agbaje, and the sprawling Agbaje family. Through his spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu painted a vivid portrait of a remarkable woman—a distinguished educator, a community stalwart, and the former President of the Catholic Women Organization (CWO) in the Lagos Ecclesiastical Province. Mrs. Agbaje wasn’t just a name in the annals of Nigerian education; she was a force of nature. Imagine a classroom in the 1950s at Holy Child College, Lagos, where young minds wrestled with the mysteries of mathematics under her sharp, guiding eye. From 1953 to 1959, she didn’t just teach numbers—she ignited curiosity. Then, at St. Joseph’s Teacher Training College in Surulere from 1960 to 1971, she molded future educators, planting seeds that would blossom into generations of knowledge. Her crowning achievement came as Headmistress of St. Catherine’s Model School in Surulere from 1971 to 1982, where she ruled with a blend of discipline and warmth that left an indelible mark on her students. Tinubu’s words captured it perfectly: her influence was “profound and lasting,” a ripple effect that touched countless lives. But her story doesn’t end at the chalkboard. Mrs. Agbaje was a beacon beyond the classroom, a woman whose dedication to nation-building shone as brightly as her academic prowess. The President hailed her as a symbol of teaching, learning, and discipline—a lighthouse guiding ships through stormy seas. Her legacy, he noted, wasn’t confined to dusty textbooks or faded report cards. It lived on in the success of those she mentored, including her own children—Jimi and Segun among them—and a legion of others who climbed to great heights under her tutelage. She was a mother not just to her family, but to a community that leaned on her wisdom and strength. And then there was her faith. In the Catholic community, Mrs. Agbaje was a titan. As President of the CWO in Lagos, she didn’t just lead—she inspired. Her leadership spilled over into numerous church societies, where her kindness and humility turned her into a pillar people could rely on. Picture her organizing events, offering counsel, or simply lending a listening ear—always with that quiet grace that made her so beloved. Tinubu called her life “a testament to kindness, humility, and unwavering dedication,” and it’s hard to argue with that. In his message, the President didn’t just mourn her loss—he celebrated her life. He invited the Agbaje family, their friends, the Catholic faithful, and all those grieving to find comfort in her enduring impact. Faith, he suggested, could be their anchor, just as it had been hers. And as he closed with prayers for her soul’s peaceful repose, you could almost feel the collective nod of a nation agreeing: Mrs. Margaret Agbaje had lived well, loved deeply, and left behind a legacy that would echo for years to come.

AFRIMA Partners BridgeAfric, UNESCO for Lagos Global Music Workshop

Our Reporters1 week ago1 week ago06 mins

Lagos is set to welcome top music business leaders, celebrities, business executives, and creative industry professionals from around the world as All Africa Music Awards, AFRIMA, partners with bridgeAfric, and UNESCO to host the Showbiz101 Global Workshop and Music Creation Camp. The event, scheduled to take place from March 26th to 29th, 2025 aims to train young creatives, foster international collaborations, and further enhance the capabilities of creators and professionals along the value chain of music production and business. Adenrele Niyi, Chief Experience Officer, (CXO), AFRIMA, said the partnership with bridgeAfric on the event underlined the AFRIMA institution’s commitment to empowering Africa’s creative industry. “As AFRIMA, part of our mission is building capacity and fostering cross-border collaborations by empowering Africa’s creative industry and by providing platforms for artists to collaborate, grow, and break boundaries. Partnering with bridgeAfric for the Showbiz101 Global Workshop & Music Creation Camp is a no-brainer. This initiative is about more than just music; it’s about equipping young creatives with the tools, knowledge, and global connections they need to thrive in the industry,” Niyi said. The AFRIMA CXO added that the event aligns with AFRIMA’s seven pillars, which include the Music Awards, Music Festivals, AFRIMA Creative Academy, Talent Discovery and Promotions, Music Business Hub, Advocacy, and Advisory & Policy Debates. “Our goal is to reinforce Africa’s position as a moving powerhouse on the global music scene—one hit, one artist, one opportunity at a time and we are excited to be at the fore front of driving this initiative,” she concluded. According to Victoria Nkong, President of bridgeAfric who is also an Associate Producer for AFRIMA, the workshop aims to support the future of Africa’s creative industry by focusing on key areas including the need to educate and train young talents, saying, “We believe learning is essential to solving problems in the entertainment industry. This workshop will equip young people with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed.” She said the event will feature performances, training sessions, and recording opportunities for artists. Nkong added that the five-day event will bring top musicians together for a three-day global music camp, where they will create songs as a team. “By the end of the camp, we will have a global EP featuring top African stars from different countries,” she said. “Another goal of the workshop is to help artists reach new audiences by connecting them with international music executives. This will open doors for them to promote their music in different parts of the world.” Some of the top artists who have confirmed their participation in the conference and recording camp are Juma Jux from Tanzania, Nadia Nakai from South Africa and DJ Neptune from Nigeria. Ivory Coast will be well represented by global music superstars like the AFRIMA Award winner Didi B, Himra, Suspect 95, Kikimoteleba, Goulam, and Gabin Bao. Other notable participants include Bizzle Osikoya, Co-founder of The Plug Entertainment, and Sesan Adeniji, General Manager of Vybz FM. From Algeria, DJ MohGreen will bring his expertise, while Eric Bellamy from Live Nation Paris, France will contribute his knowledge of the global music industry. Sonia Aimy from Canada and Wendy Harawa from Malawi are also expected. In addition to the workshop and music camp, Nkong said a welcome Industry party is scheduled for Wednesday to officially receive the participants. She added that registration is free for music producers, songwriters, and artists who want to learn, network, and advance their music careers.

Tinubu Reaffirms Commitment to Revitalizing Road Infrastructure Tinubu Reaffirms Commitment to Revitalizing Road Infrastructure

Tinubu Reiterates Commitment To Road Infrastructure Renewal

Our Reporters1 week ago1 week ago06 mins

President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed his commitment to accelerating road infrastructure renewal as a cornerstone of economic development and national integration. Speaking in Delta State while flagging off the construction of the access road to the Second Niger Bridge (Phase 2A), Tinubu reiterated his administration’s dedication to fostering economic growth through strategic infrastructure projects. The 17.55-kilometer access road to the bridge in Asaba links the South South Zone to the South East The President said the occasion was not just about flagging off a road project but a testament to the administration’s unwavering commitment to economic development, national integration, and infrastructure renewal. He said: “The construction of the Access Road is a major step towards strengthening our nation’s connectivity. “This road will ease movement, facilitate trade, and enhance economic opportunities for the people of Delta, Anambra, and beyond. “It is yet another proof that under this administration, infrastructure development remains a top priority for fostering economic growth and national unity”. Read Also: Ogun 2025: Tinubu to flag off Unity Torch for National Sports FestivalThe President, who was represented by Delta Governor Francis Oborevwori, commended Delta and Anambra for their collaborative efforts to make a success of the project “I want to especially commend the government and people of Delta and Anambra States for their collaboration in ensuring the success of this project. “Your support and cooperation are crucial in making this vision a reality. Infrastructure development is not just the responsibility of the Federal Government requires the collective effort of all stakeholders, including the State Governments, Local Communities, and Private Sector Partners,” he said. On his part, Governor Oborevwori while commending all the stakeholders for their contributions to the realisation of the project, however, urged the contractors to ensure the highest standards of quality and timely completion of the project, saying, “This is not just a road; it is a legacy of progress that will serve generations to come.” “Gratitude to all present, the traditional rulers, community leaders, and all who have contributed in one way or another to the realization of the initiative. “Your support and dedication to the success of this project reflect our shared commitment to building a better, more connected Nigeria.As we look forward to its completion, let us all continue to work together for the development of our great nation,” the governor said. In a statement on Tuesday by Mohammad Abdullahi Ahmed, the Ministry’s Director of Press and Public Relations, the Minister of Works, David Umahi, commended the Delta State Government for its dedication to infrastructure development, emphasizing that governance is about improving lives. “Your State is a construction site. You have demonstrated that leadership is about responsibility, not excuses. Instead of blaming the Federal Government, you are taking proactive actions. That is highly commendable,” he said. Umahi outlined the Federal Government’s broader vision for road infrastructure, revealing that several strategic projects are either in progress or planned nationwide, including the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, the Benin-Asaba Expressway, the Sokoto-Gusau-Katsina-Kaduna corridor, the East-West Road, and the remaining section of the Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano Dual Carriageway. He also announced that the government had approved a 9-kilometer extension of the Benin-Asaba Expressway to the Second Niger Bridge, as requested by the Edo State Government. To enhance the security and sustainability of these new roads and bridges, Umahi disclosed that the government is implementing advanced surveillance measures. He said CCTV cameras will be installed along access roads and bridges, linked directly to the offices of the respective state governors to monitor activities and prevent vandalism. He also said solar-powered streetlights will be incorporated to improve visibility and security. Reaffirming the administration’s commitment to prioritizing inherited projects, Umahi stressed that under President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, road infrastructure is receiving unprecedented attention to ensure seamless connectivity and economic progress.