Gists in Nigeria

Now, this is unbelievable. Christy Essien-Igbokwe, the queen of music, is gone, at just 51. I really am a fan of this lady, so I'm in a very bad mood. Rest In Peace mama.

Some things are certain in football. Inter Milan must hate Juventus, Jose Mourinho must talk, Alex Ferguson must chew gums, Enyimba must be in Aba and Edwin Van Der Sar cannot be replaced. Atletico Madrid goalkeeper David De Gea would try to make the latter certainty uncertain. He has been signed to fill the huge boots of Van Der Sar.
Preferred among the likes of now Bayern Munich's Manuel Neuer, Liverpool's Pepe Reina, Atletic Bilbao's Goker Irhaizoz, Ajax Armstadam's Stekelenberg, and Inter Milan's Julio Caesar, Sir Alex must have seen something in the 20 year old to make this decision. He hasn't forgotten how difficult it was replacing Peter Schmeichel before Van Der Sar. We hope he has made the right choice.
As for De Gea, he could only pray to impress rather than replace. After all, VDS is irreplaceable.

Before they left for the world cup in Germany, the Super Falcons, who conquered Africa as always, said all manner of things. If competitions were won by mere word of mouth, the likes of Germany and U.S.A would have been fretting.
When it mattered most however, the girls went and lost to France! Heck, the French girls are never so good. Even before playing the next matches, we should lnow the girls are already out. Yes, miracles happen, but not when German girls are involved. It's just like tipping Uzbekistan to beat Brazilian men in Brazil. Very impossible!
Welcome back girls. Give it a shot next time. Afterall, Africa is never your match.

There seems no end to Boko Haram's problems at the moment. This time, they stormed a drinking joint in Maiduguri and killed about 30 people (not chickens). This time, it was not with bombs. They just started shooting everything they saw, the way it is usually done in war movies. While some said they came with two cars, others claimed they came on motorcycles. According to a source from Daily Sun
“I don’t think they came in a convoy of cars as suggested. They might have ridden on motorcycles from different directions to beat the soldiers and police at a junction close to the area. They started firing shots from different directions into the joint and there were many people there at that time because it was not dark yet,”
This is a huge problem, and they get worse by the day. That people cannot even detect how they came and went is even more worrisome.
What is going on? Oga Ringim, what do you make of this?

With the transfer dealings of Real Madrid, Manchester United, Chelsea, Inter and AC Milan, and Bayern Munich, Barcelona's days are numbered. With Mourinho's Real Madrid, we expect a frustrated Barcelona to crumble next season.
Okay, they are the real description ot total and complete football. But other clubs are totally aware. Knocking them off is now an ambition. That would be fulfilled...

Chinyere Wilfred...

Omotola Jalade Ekeinde's husband has spoken on his wife's alleged infidelity
''I am very proud of my wife’s accomplishments and I join other well wishers and millions of her fans to toast her success. I’m a little surprised that instead of Nigerians celebrating her appearance at the Grammys and her, being the first Nollywood star to walk the red carpet; they are busy spreading tales and rumors that do not exist.

Truth be told, I was not angry with my wife when I saw the picture. Why should I be? I know who I married, how self-respecting she is and also the nature of her industry. She is an actress for God’s sake, and it is not out of place for actresses to appear in scenes that may look a little out of place for a married person.

The key thing is that my wife respects her marital status, and in our 15 year marriage, she has been the best woman any man could aspire to have. In spite of her stardom, at home, she is my wife. She cooks for me, takes care of the home and above all, is a great mother to our lovely children.

I sincerely would implore her fans not to buy into rumors and speculations about her marital life, because I, the husband the one that is lucky to have her as my wife is so proud of her and I continue to thank God for bringing her into my life. I could never have asked for a better wife than her” 

Enough said. Now I expect her to be left alone. The one whose opinion matters most has spoken.

Yes, Laurent Gbagbo has left and Allassane Ouattara has taken his rightful place, but it is not over yet.The last few days have been full of bad news from Ivory Coast. On June 6, an independent inquiry appointed by the U.N. Human Rights Council noted that a number of atrocities had been committed during the previous half year of turmoil, some of them likely war crimes. Worse, months after the political crisis in the Ivory Coast came to an end, the violence continues in pockets of the country, according to new testimonies collected by Medecins Sans Frontiers and statements by officials at the United Nations mission in Cote d’Ivoire.
What we cannot forget is that Ivory Coast, like Nigeria, is so divided by ethnicity. As at June 17, there were some 142,331 Ivorian refugees living in Liberia. In Abidjan, armed men still roam the streets, and mercenaries, some from neighboring states, are still to be found crossing in and out of the country.
As Elizabeth Dickinson, a writer noted, ''some 50 members of the Gbagbo administration — including the former prime minister and former minister of foreign affairs — are being held without charge.''
Expect more crises on the way.

“Why are you asking why we stepped up security here? As a journalist, you should know what is happening in Nigeria concerning bombings. We won’t want to be taken unawares. As you can notice, we even screen our own vehicles and staffers at the point of entry with the anti-bomb detector and the scanner,”

Well, everyone is on edge, even the football house. Security is being beefed up everywhere. Nobody knows where else the bomb would blow. This is the situation we find ourselves in the country at the moment.
All we pray for is speedy action from the federal government, so we start living our normal life. If they want to use the 'stick and carrot' approach and provide amnesty for the hoodlums, no problem. But if they want to use force, which I would love, then they should go ahead. Boko Haram must go!

Okay, I ran into one of the stupidest and dumbest nollywood stories so far. Despite Oge Okoye insisting she had no problem with Ini Edo, contrary to what people say, and Chioma Toplis, contrary to what Chioma says, people seem not to let her be. What is the latest?
According to the idle writer, Ini Edo accused Oge Okoye, her former (?) closest friend, who is also married, of trying to snatch her husband. They exchanged words, and subsequently engaged themselves in fisticuffs.
No problem. But I ask, what for? Isn't Oge married also? And what on earth would the snatching issue be for? While not dismissing such rumours, my hunch, which always proves right, tells me this is one of the worst lies ever told. They may no more be friends. But fight? I doubt so.
I think people should leave Oge alone. She has a family to cater for. Writing bad things about her would always affect her family. I think it's time actors and their life stories are not twisted the wrong way anymore. Just the way it is with ladies out there, two people could quarrel once in a while. Oge and Ini's shouldn't be any exception.

I always wanted Arsenal captain Francesc Fabregas to do the right thing. When he left Barcelona as a sixteen-year old, I hailed the wisdom. Growing under Arsene Wenger is the best thing a youthful footballer could always dream of. And Fabregas didn't disappoint.
Wenger has moulded him to a complete footballer he now is. In fact, he is now the captain of Arsenal. However, I fear for him.
While any sensible footballer would always dream of playing for a club like Barcelona, I feel a player has to think of the footballing, rather than financial, aspect of the game in making decisions. The question is, 'what would be the best for Fabregas, since he has been tempted by Barcelona?'.
As a Manchester United fan, I would want him to go. But as a fan of Fabregas (he alone cannot stop United), I want him to stay back. If he needs a reason why, the 2010 World cup should be one.
Xavi Hernandez and Andres Iniesta called the shots for Spain, while Fabregas remained on the bench. Both are Barcelona players, and I cannot see Pep Guardiola dropping any of them. In fact, even the worst manager wouldn't. Therefore, Fabregas has to ask himself whether he would really get game time if he went there.
For me, I'd rather stay in a place where I would be a king, than a place where I wouldn't be appreciated.
Fabregas should know one thing - he needs Arsenal more than Arsenal need him.

I remember Stella Dimoko-Korkus (I'm sure you know her) once revealed actress (?) Stephanie Nene Oforka was pregnant for footballer Kalu Uche. I also remember her saying later that Uche called her and was angry. In fact, he denied knowing Stephanie, and even said anyone who had her number should give to him, so he would know her. He even said he was single and still searching.
It was therefore a huge surprise when I saw, through Stella, that Kalu Uche just got married to the same Stephanie, and she is even pregnant.
Some people might call Uche a liar, but I would not blame the young man. It's just his nature. I've always known him as a low-keyed kind of individual. Therefore I am not surprised he got married the way he did (Okay. Now, I just contradicted myself). In fact, I expect his younger brother Ikechukwu, who is even much more low-keyed, to tow same path. May be, by the time we find out, his wife must have had 5 kids.
All the same, congratulations to Kalu. Happy married life. As the Abiriba people (where he comes from) would say, 'kaa'.

Reagan Ufomba, the APGA gubernatorial cndidate in Abia  State has given the people hope. He hopes to be sworn in through the judiciary in a few months.
''We offered ourselves to the people to be chosen, and they made their choice'' ,he said, ''Unfortunately, that choice is not the man who was sworn in as governor in Abia State. I know that I will be sworn in as governor within the next few months, after the tribunal must have done their job on the election''
Even if it fails to happen, at least he has given those who need a change in the state fresh hope. He also said what I always hammered on
''What prompted me to join the race was that I saw the need to serve and rescue my state. Abia is in a state of decadence, unemployment, kidnapping and infrastructural decay. Somehow, it turned out to be that everyone now sees it as an individuals project. In Imo State, people came out and said that they wanted change. They worked for it, not money, and they succeeded. But in Abia, there was a lukewarm attitude by the people...''
Very lukewarm attitude, I must say. Abians must take part of the blame for the problem they find themselves in. But, with Ufomba (or anybody else), there is a light at the end of the tunnel.

Chelsea Football club have every reason to be happy. Jose Mourinho is coming back...okay, his replica at least. Andre Villa-Boas won four titles with FC Porto, and at just 33, has shot up to the world reckoning. He is known as The Special One II.
Indeed, he started like Mourinho. In fact, he worked for Mourinho at Porto, Chelsea and Inter. He has charisma, is cool-headed, unlike Mourinho, but also has a strong character.
His resignation at Porto has paved the way for a Chelsea return. Manchester United must be fretting.
There would have been a problem. At 33, most of Chelsea players are older than him. How would they take orders from their junior? But, Villa Boas is said to be player-friendly like Mourinho, and commands respect. So I expect the likes of Didier Drogba to get submissive, or get the hell out.
Welcome back Mourinho...I mean, Villa Boas!

Radical man of God and Vice-Presidential aspirant in the last presidential election cannot stop baffling me. He says things that make me wonder. Men of God are role models and are scrutinized seriously. He seems not to care. I ignored statements credited to him lately at first. But when it was reportedly said at the pulpit, I was astounded. Hear him last week,
“It is time to speak”, he reportedly said, “Look at the madness going on in Yoruba land. Imbecile, nincompoop, people without family background causing problem because of money, ill gotten wealth. If a town or settlement is at peace, the bastard there is yet to grow up.
“If you are a bastard, there is nothing you can do to cover up with money. Where is your father’s compound? A bastard pretending to be a patriot. We are proud of our heritage because we have goodly heritage. There are those who call themselves nobles who are under the influence of Jezebel. Until they drink kainkain, they cannot function... if you are trusting the son of a concubine to deliver you, you are in trouble”.
While he is human, and is purely expected to be angry at any time, it would be better for him to try tread with caution. His reputation is already in tatters. He has to watch his statements, even if to restore a bit of the respect he has lost.
But his recent attitude is clearly doing the opposite, and I wonder what his congregation think of him. Referring one (I know whom he was referring to, anyway) as a bastard or son of a concubine is as vulgar as they come for a man of God. He is yet to apologise for the killing instigated by his party after the general elections. Let him ask God for forgiveness.

This is an appeal to the Movement for the Actualization of Sovereign State Of Biafra (MASSOB) to shun ever joining forces with the Boko Haram. Their leader Chief Ralph Uwazuruike has been talking in that direction.
"I congratulate them (Boko Haram) because it has taken me more than 12 years to preach the same language", he said. "...I am telling you that if I have my way, I will join them, and the entire country will turn into crisis, since it is what the Federal Government wants...I wish they will continue in their efforts and if I have my way, I will join them."
We just hope he doesn't have his way. We do not think like Boko Haram. Our philosophy, the philosophy of the Igbo tribe, is never ever the same with theirs. There are a million ways to make things work your way without throwing bombs.
"It is not only the Boko Haram that can throw bombs", he said. That's true. There are lots of people with such courage, but then common sense prevails when the brilliant are involved. The MASSOB are brilliant.
"...we are considering the fact that we can still achieve the same purpose by peaceful means without anybody dying." That is the point. When bombs are thrown, the innocent suffer. We are not known for that. Let Boko Haram do what they want. We aren't them. Let them consider education a sin. We do not. Let them see throwing bombs as the best option to being heard, we should not.

The Nigerian music industry is in the best position at the moment, and the musicians are doing great. Just years ago, when the industry started getting strong, with the likes of Daddy Showkey, Baba Fryo and others, nobody ever thought it would get this wonderful.
The road wasn't smooth. We remember Eedris Abdulkareem and his altercations with 50 Cent. That is by the way. In those days, musicians trekked on the streets on dirty towels, looking hungry and unkempt. Just imagine any Nigerian songster moving on the road with even a cheap car. Impossible.
Aside the financial gratifications, which of course is the most important, what I consider most satisfying is the international recognition the industry has garnered. Nigerian musicians like Faze, Tuface and D'banj have worked with globally recognized and respected artists.
If we need further proof on the growing popularity of the industry, then the fact every Nollywood act wants to sing, and the fact Tuface and D'banj were nominated for the BET award, would come in handy. Even if none of them won it, they would have done us proud.
Hey, J.martins performed at Didier Drogba's wedding in far away France...!!

The Inspector General of Police, Hafiz Ringim, has to go. The reason is simple. He caused the recent suicide bombing in Abuja. As a matter of fact, he was the target.
Just when the federal government (who are tired of keeping quiet) and Borno state government (who are tired of being under pressure) were making headway with the Boko Haram, and were about placating those headless chickens, Ringim made a harmful error. He said the days of Boko Haram were numbered, and boasted how they would be dealt with. Two days later, Boko Haram struck. I think Ringim must have been their target.
But why must he make such threats when he and his troops had nothing to offer? Now, all FG and Borno state started, have been shattered by a limelight-seeking and popularity-loving man.
He should honourably resign. And if he doesn't, president GEJ must take actions. We need actions, not talks. Ringim has given us the latter.

Politics could be so unpredictable, and there are no permanent friends, neither are there permanent enemies. No place has this played out so much than in Imo State.
Remember it was said ex-governor Ikedi Ohakim used to be friends with Ifeanyi Araraume,but they fell out. Then Araraume worked against him, in tandem with Araraume's own sworn enemy (or former) and the man who stopped him from being governor in 2007, and incidentally put Ohakim there. Plots and sub-plots. Recently, Governor Rochas Okorocha's list of commissioners gave another twist to the fun.
Prof. Vera Onwuliri, Ohakim's running mate in the just-concluded election was one of the nominees, which makes me wonder. Is it that Ohakim has been so rejected, that even his people have left him? Or does Rochas want to bring everyone together, a la Government of National Unity (GNU)? Or is this just one of the definitions of politics?
Anyhow we look at it, it was a surprise.

Of all restrictions on women in the Arab world, driving ban baffles me. They have been restricted from driving, and expected to adhere to it. But, surprisingly, they have said no, and chose June 17 to protest.
In a world where women have no say, they have proved they are really evolving. In those days, they did what they were told to, and that would be it. Even if they were told to move around the streets nude (which would be the last thing they would be told to do, anyway), they would obey. But not again.
"This is only the beginning," said Eman Al Nafjan, a female blogger, who is an unrepentant June 17 driving protester. "The whole idea behind the campaign was that June 17 is the start date. It is not the only day. It's the date when women will start to drive."
This is significant.

At the last count, the recent Abuja suicide bombing claimed eight lives, and not two. This is worse than I actually thought. Also, about 70 people would be without cars.
I fear the death toll might rise. Also, I fear nothing would be done about it.
President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan has promised to bring the perpetrators to book, has promised to do this, and promised to do that. We have heard all these before.
Suicide bombing should no more be associated with this great nation. President GEJ and indeed Nigerians have to make it so.

Unbelievable! So I'm now big enough to be interviewed? Check this out...copied it out from the site my interview appeared,

Writing comes with its challenges, but not when Kelechi Udensi is involved. He sees it as a hobby. In this interview, he tells us about his love for writing, and nollywood

You use the name Yusuf, yet you are Igbo. Why?
(giggles) It has to do with my time in the north. I'm so used to the northerners . They did not  want to use my name wrongly, so they gave me Yusuf. It's funny, really, because a lot of people have asked me this same question. I am no northerner. I must have stayed in Kaduna for a while. I love the norherners. I even have a little knowledge of Hausa language.

So where are you from?
I am from Item, in Bende Local Government in Abia State. I am the first son, but the second child from a family of three. I am in my twenties. My parents are very much alive and kicking. They are doing well, and proud of me.

How did you develop your love for writing?
I cannot just say, because writing is something I love doing. It looks like something I developed from my mother's womb. Therefore, saying I developed my writing skill out of something is a bit unfair.

What motivates to write?
A lot. The decay in the country. The infrastructural, moral and academic decays in the society, in my state, would make even the softest of hearts to go into political criticism. No matter what, I am prepared to make this country great, with my contribution.

You haven't told us about yourself.
I graduated from Abia State University. I did Mass Communication. I attended the legendary and prestigious Government College Umuahia. I used to be very popular then in school, because I was so good in acting and debate. I still am.

How old are you?
(laughs) I'm not a girl who hides age. I entered and left secondary school in 1996 and 2002 respectively. Make out the age yourself. (general laughter)

You said earlier you are good in acting. Why haven't you joined Nollywood?
Seriously, a few producers have approached me for a role, but I had been busy then. My blog, my writings have been taking my time. Im also furthering my education. I also work. I equally have a drama group in Kaduna. Now, I am very ready for any movie role. I want to be involved in a movie. I want to make the best out of this industry. I want to help make this industry great. That is my dream.

Do you think you can make it? One of your friends once revealed you are very thorough when business is involved
But if you do not take your business serious, that is a problem. I do not know who told you that, but he/she is obviously right. If no producer is thorough in nollywood, then there is a problem

Who are your role models?
I have a lot. John Grisham makes me happy. I love Chinua Achebe, both as an old boy of my secondary school and a writer. Who wouldn't liked Soyinka? I like Chimamanda Adichie too.

Nollywood?
Uncle Pete Edochie is my role model, so is Bob-Manuel Udokwu. For the ladies, Chinyere Wilfred is my main sister. I love her a lot. I do not know why. I hope to act with her soonest. I sure do.

They have started again. They called her a kleptomaniac, then a lesbian, then sugar-daddies' patroniser, and more. Yet she has remained dignified. Now they circulate a nude picture they allege belongs to her. Her response? Always as brillian and dignified as ever
''This is to assure my numerous concerned friends, fans and family that the picture is not mine, a look at the devilish pictures shows a tripod light and if you look closely, you will see the only part of the picture that is blunt are what is suppose to be her face, if you ask those who have seen my body they will tell you I do not have a single tattoo but just a birth mark.
''We leave whoever is not busy and has been sending these pictures around to their conscience while I concentrate on building my career and business which is doing well now''
Well said, Empress. I must admit I love this girl. I have not seen a single bad thing she has ever done(well, except dating Timaya, which she regrets, anyway). I advise they leave her alone to live her life.

So, finally, Boko Haram (Education is a sin) made good their threats of wrecking more havoc in the northern parts of the country, including Abuja. This is horrible. Some people are even saying they targeted the police because IGP Hafiz Ringim 'boasted' that Boko Haram's days were numbered. From every indication, it was an empty threat. He even managed to escape being bombed.
Alhaji Abubakar Tsav, former Lagos State Governor said something I totally agree with. He said nowhere was safe any longer in the country, and wondered whether the Boko Haramwas on a revenge mission,

“Many questions are begging for answers. Could it be an act of sabotage or revenge? Some section of the police are not happy with the IGP’s pronouncement over the military killing of senior police officers in Lagos. Could it be Boko Haram on a revenge mission?”
Well, we do not know. What we do know is that the Boko Haram is on the prowl. We have to watch it.

Biafran warlord and APGA Chieftain, Dim Emeka Odumegwu Ojukwu is back fromthe hospital, says his young and pretty queen, Bianca Ojukwu.
“Eze Igbo is not the type that wishes to stay abroad when he was well. It is his sincere hope and wish that he is home, he hopes to return home to his people soon.”she also revealed. MASSOB are said to be ready to give him a celebratory return home.
Personally, though, I feel so happy he is coming back. The Igbos still need him. Then Bianca said something you all know will make me happy,
“Eze Igbo is bitter over T.A. Orji disappointment because it was a project he was committed to; the way T.A came to beg and he leaving without a word of goodbye, that he was going back to the PDP made Ojukwu to feel too bad,”. Everyone felt bad too.
Welcome home, OUR hero. Many more years for you.

In recent weeks, media suggestions have been rife that pretty, sexy and curvy actress Omotola Jalade Ekeinde is involved in an affair with a certain Dr Taiwo Afolabi. The actress, as expected anyway, has since moved to deny such claim, and has actually vowed, or promised, to sue wherever the story came from at the first place.
This is not the first time she would be linked with men, anyway. I'm a bit surprised at the frenzy this particular one created. Okay, she is married with kids. But as a public figure, and as pretty as she is, I expected nothing less.
I do not believe the story, and other hogwash written about some public figures. However, some of them shouldn't be met with any surprises. I believe much more would be written about more actors. They should get used to them, no matter how true or false they may be.

Nigeria's security problem seems to be going alarmingly much more into deeper grounds. When the capital city of a nation is bombed every singular moment, then there is problem. The recent bomb blast on police headquarters in Abuja is as embarrassing as they come. Boko Haram, who must have shared half of my site, have been fingered as the culprits. It isn't surprising. They have been allowed to gain ground. Soon, who knows, their next target would be the Aso Rock. God forbid. This is no more Borno problem. It has become a national malaise. It has always been.
I can't believe this country would ever be associated with bombs. That is the situation now. And to demonstrate how terrorist this is fast turning into, it was alleged to be a suicide bombing. If a man could set himself ablaze just to prove a point, then we are in for more problems.
Let us pray in our churches and mosques. This problem must leave Nigeria. It has to.

It was an emotional farewell for respected actor Ashley Nwosu in his Ikwuano, Umuahia hometown. He must be smiling wherever he is. His family must be grateful to Nollywood for making such contribution. A lot of them were there. His wife once admitted being surprised at the support she had gotten. After all, her husband never had much friends.
But that is one of the things nollywood practitioners have done well. They never abandon their own. It does not matter how close they are to you. They always rejoice with you in your days of joy, and support you in your time of sorrow.
That is a bond that puts Nollywood together. Even gossips, blackmails, quarrels, waywardness and jealousy haven't managed to stop that.

When Martin Jol was carelessly and inexplicably sacked in 2007 by Tottenham, the football world shouted against it. Even Jol's enemies sympathized with him. When, also in 2009/2010 season, Mark Hughes, then of Manchester City, was given a top-five target, and was sacked even while in 5th, the whole world criticised football administrators. When his successor, Roberto Mancini, still finished 5th, people got more baffled at Hughes' dismissal.
But that same Hughes got a job with Fulham. While Fulham hit poor form, everyone except the club owners wanted him fired. He stayed on and steadied the ship. Before his name could be spelt however, he left the club and the owner and players were in disarray.
Alex McLeish, a popular figure, won the Carling cup with Birmingham against Arsenal, yet they were relegated. The club supported him. He woke up one morning and resigned - through e-mail, and is set for Birmingham's bitter rivals, Aston Villa.
The case of Hughes and McLeish demonstrates how football politics should be played - in dirty, uncaring and heartless manner. While Fulham recovered and employed an even better gaffer than Hughes, ironically Martin Jol, Birmingham are in deep trouble - relegated and confused.
In my opinion, we should no more pity these coaches when they are dismissed, deservedly or not. They are also capable of breaking hearts, like Hughes and McLeish.

The trend is becoming ugly. In this country, whenever a new governor is inaugurated, his first job is usually to make noise about his predecessor. He spends the first six months (or even a year) 'revealing' how much has been embezzled, except the governor has political affinity with the ex- (well, wait until they have problem).
Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso of Kano State has been saying everything in the world about ex-governor, Ibrahim Shekarau. If a rat has dug a hole in the government house kitchen, he has said it. Even if rain falls on the ceiling, shoes touch the floor, electricity fluctuates, people walk on the streets sweating, trees grow and a car develops fault, he has blamed Shekarau. I do not consider Shekarau a saint. I'm not from Kano. But for Kwankwaso, a man who almost indirectly incited mayhem in 2003 because the people didn't want him to return as governor, mending the broken pieces his reputation has turned to, should be uppermost. And he has to do that by assuming the role of a silent achiever. He should work, and people would see it. Berating Shekarau anytime he wakes up from sleep would do him no good.

Boko Haram, that terrorist Islamic group wrecking havoc in Borno State, are at it again. They have shot four people dead in a beer parlour!! Even beer parlour? Where people go to drink their stress away? I thought they were after the educated, and the government. Surely they would find no government official there, and educated people might be the last group they would find there.
Anyway, they have given conditions for cease-fire. And what did those clowns say? First, the governor of Borno State, Kassim Shettima would have to resign. Haha. For this Naija? Governor fit resign for dis place? Kai, we dey America so? They also said former governor Ali Modu Sheriff should be tried. Interesting! Then, twelve states in Nigeria, the muslim dominated areas, should be made Sharia States. That's one-third of the country, literally speaking!
Well, from these conditions, it's more than obvious those touts don't want to stop. Their conditions are almost impossible. In fact, they are outrightly impossible. This country doesn't belong to a set of comedians who don't want to go to school. It belongs to everybody. They want to go on killing their brothers, abi? Well, since the government seem powerless, let them go on. Posterity, that judge, would touch them one by one. Chikena. Me no get talk again!

"The problem with Arsenal is not buying big stars. The problem is Wenger. Sack him, and Arsenal would be just fine..."

While the above statement from a fan of Arsenal could be considered harsh, a lot of people would find solace in it.
Sadly, while Manchester United, Chelsea and Liverpool have been linked with players coming in these past few days, Arsenal have been linked with players moving out. Cesc Fabregas remains a target for Barcelona, Manchester City, Inter Milan and even Real Madrid. Samir Nasri has failed to sign a contract and Manchester United have been hovering around. Gael Clichy continues to tickle Liverpool's fancy. But how serious Arsenal, and indeed Wenger acts to keep them would be the key.
Wenger admitted last season saw him tasking himself the most throughout his career. On evidence of the results, his best wasn't good enough.
Next season would be his chance for redemption, may be his last chance. Whether he rises up to the challenge by changing his obviously flawed philosophy, we would find out.

Since he took over from Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola seven months, Rauf Aregbesola has performed creditably. Knowing much was expected from him anyway, the 54-year old has not disappointed. Indeed, he has managed to prove that association with the best kind of people could also rub off on you. He has close ties with Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Lagos State Government. In fact, he has been a commissioner in Lagos State before, under Tinubu.
No matter how good you are, however, you must be criticised. The opposition have said series of things, including him travelling all the time. Well, if travelling all the time is the secret to his performance, then he should travel more. They say the state is still in shambles and he has done nothing. If anything, that is even a clear indictment on Oyinlola's administration, rather than Rauf. They say he doesn't practice true democracy. Well, even the best has been accused of more. That's mere sour grape.
I have no answer, however, to the criticism on why he has no commissioners yet...since he took over. Well, that seems to be his only wrong, one that is obvious. But why doesn't he have any yet? A man of his wisdom surely has reasons for that. PDP thinks he doesn't trust his men. They think he's looking to appoint about 80 per cent Lagosians. Whatever, let him get his commissioners - unless he doesn't want to.
As long as the Permanent Secretaries are performing creditably, who needs commissioners?

When, during the post-election violence, corp members were butchered in Bauchi, the media frenzy that followed it sort of took the gloss (ok, that's the wrong word) off the carnage that manifested itself in Kafanchan, Kaduna State. I was also guilty of the same sin, astonishingly. When I read Apostle Emmanuel Nuhu Kure's interview on The Sun's Sunday 12th June 2011 edition, I got the picture again.
As one who has stayed there for a while, and still with a family there anyway, Apostle Kure's every talk made sense (I remember having heard him preach live). Kafanchan dwellers always stay perpetually in fear of crisis each time there is a case of religious bickerings, be it in Nigeria or even Iraq. I remember vividly in January 2010, during one of the Jos mayhems, there were alleged plans by the muslims to start a fight. There was tension in the air. We slept at night like dogs - one eye closed, the other open. It wasn't funny. My uncle, a politician, whose friends were lodged in an hotel close to the muslim territory, couldn't sleep at all. He paced up and down, while his sons and I watched in painful resignation. Looking back, we'd all laugh at it, but it was never funny.
In Kafanchan, the muslims would start a fight, after hiding their wives and kids and taking the Christians unawares, and when the fight is over, they claim, as the minority in Kaf, that they attacked. They would gain media and public sympathy and the victims villified.
Let the government take strict measures. If you knew that town before, filled with the Igbos anyway, and see it now, you would weep - whoever you are!
I'm gutted, and that is the fact.

I have decided to fall in love with Madam Patience Jonathan, the first lady of Nigeria. Remember I vowed to dislike her for ever embarrassing my hero, Governor Rotimi Amaechi of Rivers State. I also promised to hiss because she told Abia people to accept the fact their non-performing governor would be re-elected, whether they voted or not. Other statements credited to her in the past have made me not like her. But I've changed my mind.
First, and not necessarily the major reason, her husband is a man we all love. I can't love a man's head, and ignore the legs. So we must accept her.
Again, I have reasons to believe she has turned a new and better leaf. I told friends not to expect that much from her in the first term, because I felt she was actually using her short term in office as a learning process. Now she's back, she must have changed.
Also, championing the entry of women in politics has always been her dream and she has been actualizing that. Now, they love her.
The days of 'umblerra' and 'fellow widows' seem a thing of the past. Madam GEJ has come to stay, and stay she will. Our support wouldn't wane for her.

Ghanaian-born loverboy and movie actor, Majid Michel may not be having the best of times in his family at the moment. A certain Zeina Cisse has been informing all internet sites that Majid put her in the family way. According to her, Majid has accepted the pregnancy and would divorce his wife to take care of Zeina and the expectant baby.
While Majid's interpretations in movies and his close friendship with Jim Iyke would make this story look so believable, it also sounds funny.
Majid, who loves media attention and the glamour that comes with it (even if it aims at showing he's better than Van Vicker), has always tried to deny being a loverboy, and has claimed he loves his wife and kids a lot. That is no reason to believe he didn't put any mistress in the family way. And he's yet to even come out to confirm or deny the allegation.
However, these days, movie people seem to be targets for desperate ladies ready to tarnish the images of married celebrities.
Until Majid comes out to either confirm or deny this claim, we would only speculate. And my own is simple. My hunch tells me Zeina is just a desperate lady, trying to bring a probably not-so-innocent Majid down.
As I said, only Majid's words would prove me right...or
wrong!

Kanu Nwankwo is a legend, clear and simple. An epitome of decency himself, Kanu has achieved a lot.
As he retires from football, he would never be forgotten. Just check out his testimonial.
He is a success story, and we all celebrate him. Congratulations King Kanu!

It's heartbreak all the way for those who love Manchester United legend, Ryan Giggs. His manager, his teammates, his fans and friends must be utterly gutted.
Here was a man who embodied everything decent. He never did anything wrong on- and off the football pitch. Any player who needed encouragement was shown Ryan Giggs, a faithful servant of Manchester United. But just like Tiger Woods, he has been branded the latest 'sex addict' and the media can't contain their horror, even if they hid their joy.
I'm not bothered, even if he dated thirty-nine women. It isn't new. What I find more embarrassing is his affair with his younger brother's wife, Natasha. I would always respect him, but he has lost a bit of it. If he weren't, like Tiger Woods, a perfect man who did no wrong, I would have understood. Now, all he has put together for years, he has crashed.
What is it with these Europeans? An idiotic Natasha didn't want her husband and Gigg's wife to be in pains, yet she revealed her affair with Giggs. Wouldn't she have kept it secret and moved on, for everyone's sake? Arrant nonsense! She always wanted to hug the headlines. A chance presented itself, and she took it with open arms. Now a family is shattered. I say this because other affairs wouldn't hurt the way this did to the family.
For Giggs, he has to know he has one or two explanations to make to Fergie. Also, taunts from away teams next season would come in abundance, not just to him but the entire United squad. Anfield and Eastlands would not get tired of hauling obscenities.
Giggs has disappointed us. That's the fact.

News, grapevine and facts emerging on Federation of International Football Association (FIFA) have been alarming, to say the very least. A lot of bribery allegations have emerged and most of the delegates, especially on the Quatar 2022 World cup bid, have given proofs to corroborate these notions. In fact, the suspension of Nigeria's Amos Adamu is starting to look unfair!!
Sepp Blatter, a diehard political football chief, has been the president of the now very corrupt FIFA for more than 12 years and is still counting. He is seventy-five (75) now, more than five years older than Sir Alex Ferguson, whom the media have been counting time for. He seems to have lost touch with reality, really. People complain about leaders who sit tight and fail to leave. Blatter is blattantly one of them.
Diego Maradona, one ex-footballer who never fears giving opinions, called them ''dinosaurs'' who know ''nothing about football'', and ''hopes they resign'' although he knows ''they would not."
Blatter is not even ready to leave. As a matter of fact, he says he has brought in three people, to help clean-up the house. And who are they? Johan Cruyff, former Barcelona player and manager, inventor of total football, but also a total divider of opinions, is one. No problem, who else? Placido Domingo, a Spanish-Mexican opera singer, who hasn't played in, talked of or managed a team. The third? Henry Kissinger, an 88-year old (!!!) former USA Secretary of State. Oh dear!
How these men, excluding Cruyff (depending on where your opinion on him lies), hope to change the face of FIFA, we would just wait to realise.
Football, I fear, is soiled...just like other sectors.

When former Russia boss, Guus Hiddink, takes over at Chelsea as expected, one man would be scratching his head. Sir Alex Ferguson knows he would have his work cut out. Guus Hiddink is never a flash in the pan.
Forget Arsenal and Arsene Wenger. Forget Manchester City, their noise, their money and Roberto Mancini. Forget Liverpool, their honeymoon period and Kenny Dalglish. Oh,don't mind Tottenham and Harry Redknapp. Chelsea remains United's main competitors.
With a big job to do, including overhauling an old and egocentric squad, only a man of experience like Hiddink would achieve that. Changing the mentality of English players who feel they own a squad is key. Captain John Terry has even started deciding whom he wants. Hiddink's response just shows what he would do to knock them to size (''is he the president of Chelsea?'').
If only he would wait a little longer, Fergie would love it.

No actress would claim to have experienced bad press the way Rivers' State-born actress Tonto Dikeh has. She has been called a lot. Today, she appeared in a night club without her panties. The next day, she's in lesbian acts with other actresses. Yet other days, she's flirting, stealing, fighting, stuck on drugs and backbiting. But even a baby still in the womb (or so it seems) knows she is never all these written about her. If she were, then it would be a disaster.
Early this year, she received all manner of insults from the viewing public, the media and colleagues over her role in a then yet-to-be-released movie, 'Dirty Secret'. The movie trailer looked horrible. Even myself, a well-known 'Thomas', whose watchword seems to be, "seeing is believing", felt irritated. She defended herself. She said she was being professional and just acting her role. Anyone who didn't like it, then "f*** you real hard". That even made things worse. She was hated more. But I took a different view. This girl, I felt, was trying to defend herself and the frustration was so much she did it all the wrong way. I was proved right when I saw the so-called 'controversial' movie. Controversy, it stirred. But not really because of Tonto, but a desperate-to-act Muna Obiekwe and old but uncaring Jibola Dabo. Tonto was vindicated. Again, the critics didn't stop.
They said she never grew with a mum and that was why she acted the way she did. But I remember her revealing once, in her early Nollywood days, that she lost her mum early BUT was well taken care of by her step-mum. Saying she never had motherly training, in fact, is a clear indictment on her step-mother, which is unfair.
Next, they said her dad disowned her. How true does that sound? Whenever she grants interviews, she never forgets to put family in. I remember rumours then about Cossy Orjiakor being disowned by parents. It turned out they were actually her number one fan. Comparing Cossy with Tonto would be very very unfair, though.
Again, she celebrated her birthday lately, and with the less-privileged. Her haters ignored that. What they tackled was her age. They said she wasn't 26, as she claimed, but 28. What difference does it make,anyway? The day I met her, I felt she was younger, may be 25 or 24.
Until Nigerians understand movie role interpreters aren't necessarily what they act, then actors would still suffer like Tonto. No wonder a parent would say, "no way. You would never act. They are usually wayward." While we can't deny there are bad-behaved actors, generalising it would be harsh. It irritates me to note that actors would always expect questions like, "how did your parents take it when you decided to be an actor?", in an interview, as if they've decided to become Revrend Fathers and Sisters. Why don't they ask that when they want to join Banks and Oil Companies?

''Why is she still in the Big Brother House?''
''Ah, Uti Nwachukwu was better. Karen isn't representing us well''
"She's ugly!"
"She wants to join Nollywood? Give me a break!"

I am not a big fan of that boring, time-wasting and highly unimportant (in my opinion, as a serious-minded individual) Big Brother Africa. The day I tried to see it for a few hours, obviously for lack of anything important to see, I didn't enjoy it. No, I'm not being old-fashioned (even if I were, who cares). I love entertainment, and whenever I have the chance, go to parties and red carpets. I just do not like BBA.
Whichever way, I'm going to see this Karen girl, and construct my own opinion...not that it matters.

Wonderful things are really happening to Nigerian artist D'banj. For once, I would lift my write-up from another source
American multiple awards winning artist and producer, Kanye West has today finalized his interest to sign one of Nigeria’s biggest hip-hop artistes, Dapo Oyebanjo popularly known as D’Banj & Don Jazzy to his Good Music Entertainment, a production, management and record label outfit. “GOOD” is an acronym for “Getting Out Our Dreams”.

Speaking to D’Banj’s manager, Sunday Are of List Entertainment, he confirmed that there have been talks recently but D’Banj officially signed the contract today. “Yes there have been discussions between the two parties lately. They have been exchanging contracts but now the wait is over, he said.

Surces also revealed that Kanye is interested in working with Don Jazzy. We heard he wants him to produce a song on the collaboration album he is working on with Jay Z.

Don Jazzy tweeted this morning. "Thanks for ur love and prayers always. Now we can hear IDJA (Its Don Jazzy again) from the world's finest Stars. Thanks again, it's Naija"

Dbanj also tweeted this morning. "Just like yesterday myself and my brother did Tongolo. 7yrs later Mo' Hits signs with Good Music. Best birthday gift ever. God thank u"

I pity former speaker, House of Representatives, Dimeji Bankole. Since his arrest, a lot of people have used his name to coin lots of things, most of them derogatory.
His partakers in crime have left him high and dry and escaped to only God-knows-where. He is left to bear the cost of 'contract inflation and embezzlement of public funds'.
Bankole, who was denied oral bail and was advised to apply for it formally, has no good advisers. He would have easily pleaded guilty and allowed them sentence him on 'one-year imprisonment', with a 'month' he has spent already counted and the rest spent in the 'hospital' due to ill-health.
Seriously, however, I do not think much would be done to that man. The court would grant him bail, and that would be it. Na Naija we dey, ko?

When my favourite striker in the English Premier League, Robbie Keane, left Tottenham in 2008 to join Rafa 'fact' Benitez at Liverpool, I felt downhearted. I knew he made the decision more on sentiment (he's a Liverpool fan). Six months later, he was out of Liverpool and back at Tottenham. Not a few wondered why he left at the first place.
He was Tottenham captain, was in the best partnership with Dimitar Berbatov and was actually well paid. On the other hand, aside the sentimental talk, he must have left because Berbatov also moved, to Manchester United. More importantly, it seemed he wasn't comfortable with Juande Ramos, a manager that replaced his 'father' Martin Jol.
Ever since he was misused and destroyed by the unfriendly Benitez, he has been suffering. From Celtic (another club he supports) to Tottenham and then West Ham, he has yet to recover. But, with him scoring for his country to break a record, he got what seemed to be a better news - Martin Jol, his 'father', has returned to England, after spells in Germany and his native Netherland. Now it seems Keane would settle down again.
Considered a father-figure, it is no surprise Jol looks like the best manager for a sulky Keane. All the same, I can't wait to see my favourite football characters back to their best, and this time, for Fulham's gain.

I always knew it would be next to impossible to oust Libyan leader Col. Muammar Gaddafi. While Tunisia's Ben Ali and Egypt's Hosni Mubarak took to their heels, I knew the next target in the revolution would never let go. And he didn't disappoint. Not even the death of his son and hundreds of people has changed his mind. He doesn't even seem ready to back down. Just as early as yesterday, he vowed to remain in the country, ''dead or alive''
He even said he would welcome death because martyrdom would be a "million times better" than surrender. That man is unbelievably a tiger, negatively or not. I admire him. Hear him,
"We only have one choice. This is our country and we shall stay here till the end - dead, alive, victorious. It doesn't matter.
"We shall not leave. We shall not surrender. We shall not sell it," he added. "We welcome death. Martyrdom is a million times better."
I do not like what is happening in Libya, but I just admire that man's courage. Whether he's right or wrong, I cannot just tell.

At least five people have been killed after police stations were attacked in the northern Nigerian city of Maiduguri, hospital sources say. That was yesterday.
Please what on earth do we do to these Boko Haram people? Even people set to secure lives are not safe. What is wrong? What is the federal government doing?And the state? How many more people need to die before action is taken.
It's unbelievable. Why?