Curtis James Jackson III, American rapper and producer popularly known as 50 Cent, has announced plans to release a movie series based on notorious Nigerian internet fraudster, Ramon Abass.
Best known as Hushpuppi, Abass was arrested in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates in June 2020, for defrauding over 1.9 million people, majority of whom were Americans.
He was afterwards extradited to the United States for trial on July 3, the same year.
As earlier reported by The PUNCH, a United States District Court sitting at the Central District of California on Monday sentenced Hushpuppi to 11 years and three months’ after he was found guilty of laundering proceeds of a school financing scam, business email compromise and other fraudulent cyber schemes.
The 37 years old had earlier pleaded guilty to the charges filed against him during the trial.
Sharing pictures of the convict, 50 Cent made it known via his Instagram account on Wednesday that he was working on a movie project based on Hushpuppi’s story.
The G-Unit Records founder wrote in the caption, “For my scammers I gotta do this one. Hushpuppi series coming soon! GLG, Green Light Gang I don’t miss. #Bransoncognac #lecheminduroi #gunitfilmandtv.”
The Presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, Atiku Abubakar, has predicted the collapse of the All Progressives Congress after the 2023 general elections.
The PDP candidate said, “To be honest PDP is the only political party, APC is not a political party, it is an alliance between the CPC and Tinubu’s party, and we have seen how alliances in this country has disappeared over night.
“I don’t think APC would survive after this election, we are going to vote them out and by the time we vote them out, they will be dead.”
He described the PDP as the only true and longest surviving political party in Nigeria noting that members especially youths should be proud of their membership.
No fewer than fourteen (14) executive members of Labour Party, LP, including the State secretary have defected to the New Nigeria Peoples Party, NNPP, in Ebonyi State.
DAILY POST gathered that the LP members are aggrieved over the running of the party in the State.
It was also learnt that the Presidential candidate of the NNPP, Musa Kwankwaso received the former LP State exco members during his one-day campaign visit to the State.
The Gubernatorial candidate of NNPP in Ebonyi State, Prophet Chris Adol-Awam made this known while addressing the national leadership of the party, together with the presidential candidate of the party, Musa Kwankwaso, during a town hall meeting which took place at the Genezer hotel, located along Onwe Road Abakaliki, capital of Ebonyi State.
According to him: “we are very proud of the NNPP Presidential candidate, Kwankwaso. And, we believe that he will win the forthcoming general election as the next President of Nigeria. He has the capacity to transform Nigeria.
“The members of the Labour Party are here with us and they want to work with us. The secretary, youths and women leaders have identified with us, not as spectators but as trusted and reliable members.”
Similarly, the gubernatorial candidate of NNPP, Adol-Awam inaugurated the campaign council of the Party in the State.
Abia state governor, Okezie Ikpeazu has told the people of Abiriba Community in Ohafia local government area that he has a big dream for Abia South Senatorial District, a people he seeks to represent in Senate next year.
The governor during a meeting on Thursday which took place at the Abiriba Communal Improvement Union Hall, Jubilee Road by East Aba, stated that his vision for Abia South is to bring federal presence to the zone by constructive and result-oriented engagement with the federal authorities.
The governor is a release signed by his chief press secretary, Onyebuchi Ememanka described the people of Abiriba in Ohafia LGA as his traditional and trusted political allies.
He regretted that there is no federal presence in the area but emphasised that the time has come for Abia South to have a voice in Abuja so as to change the narrative.
The release read further “The Governor attributed the recent protests and blockage of the Aba -Portharcourt federal road by trailer drivers to the frustration arising from the deplorable condition of the Federal road leading to the very difficult economic conditions for our people. He reminded the people of Abiriba that if not for the bypass constructed by his administration which made it possible to link Aba with Ikot Ekpene, it would have led to the closure of the Aba – Akwa Ibom commercial corridor.
“Governor Okezie Ikpeazu traced a greater development of Aba to Abiriba people, who have always contributed to the economic development of Abia State, and described them as resilient, hardworking, and people of courage and firm character.
“He disclosed that he has awarded the contract for Ugwu Court road in Abiriba and informed that the contractor would be mobilized to commence the construction this month, adding that he is mobilizing for the construction of Ulasi road in Aba and assured that the remaining part of Abiriba ring road will be completed. He said he is relying on his relationship with the Abiriba people and other residents of Aba to win his senatorial bid and assured that he will keep his promise and covenant with them.
“The Governor who urged the Abiriba people and all Abians to support all PDP candidates to victory, recommended that the best thing to do in the State is to vote Prof. Uche Ikonne, saying he is reliable, adding that a vote for Prof. Ikonne is a vote for the Abiriba Community.
“In their separate speeches the Member representing Aba Central at the State House of Assembly, Hon. Sir Abraham Oba, his Ohafia North counterpart, Hon. Mandela Obasi and the Pro-Chancellor/Chairman of the Governing Council of the Abia State University, Uturu, Chief Mba Ukariwo assured that they will mobilize the Abiriba people for the actualization of the senatorial ambition of the Governor. They equally urged their people to pull resources together for the five over-five victories of the PDP come 2023 which he noted will advance the socio-economic and political fortunes of their people.
“Earlier in their speeches on behalf of the Abiriba Communal Improvement Union, the President, Abiriba Community Improvement Union, Aba, Chief Nduka Agwu, the President of Abiriba Communal Improvement Union, Aba Branch, Women’s Wing, Mrs. Comfort Abosi threw their weight behind, Governor Okezie Ikpeazu’s Senatorial bid and that of all the PDP candidates in the 2023 elections.
“They extended their gratitude to Governor Okezie Ikpeazu for appointing their sons into positions of authority including Chief John Okiyi Kalu, Chief Mba Ukariwo, Prof. Mkpa Agu Mkpa among others, and noted that it is time to reciprocate the love shown them. They appealed to the Governor to fix Agbor Court road and complete the remaining part of the Abiriba ring road.
“The event attracted the presence of the member representing Obingwa West State Constituency at the State House of Assembly and Director General of the Ikpeazu for Senate Campaign Organization, Hon. Barrister A.C Thomas Nkoro, Commissioner for Trade and Investment, Chief John Okiyi Kalu, Commissioner for Youth Development, Barrister Charles Esonu Onyedikachi, members of the Abiriba Communal Improvement Union among other dignitaries.”
Eminent Nigerians have been honoured at the 2022 IgbereTV Leadership Excellence award which took place at Transcorp Hilton Hotel Abuja at the weekend.
Among those honoured includes, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, Chief Whip of the Senate, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, governor of Ebonyi state, Dave Umahi and 38 other eminently qualified awardees.
The highly coveted award is endorsed by the African Union, African Film Institute, and the News Agency of Nigeria.
The event which just held its 4th edition is one of the most looked out for events in Abuja the nation’s capital.
It was chaired by Prince Dr. Don Okonkwo, Chairman Tetrazzini Group and former Anambra Governorship aspirant who is also the Honorary Consul To DR Congo
Prince Okonkwo while congratulating the awardees urged them not to be discouraged in showing exemplary leadership.
Guests were thrilled with exciting entertainment as comedians, musicians and dancers got awardees and their invited guests excited.
Among comedians who thrilled the audience include Funnymic, Funny Bruno, Mr Odey the Uncommon Comedian and more.
Music was provided by traditional performers and dancers, The countryMan and hip-hop star, Faze Alone.
Country ManFaze Alone
IgbereTV, Africa’s foremost community TV.
The award is designed to reward those who have distinguished themselves in service delivery across all sectors of national life.
Speaking at the event, the founder of IgbereTV, James Emeh said awardees were carefully selected and voted through online polls.
Mr. James Emeh
He said the editorial board of the news organization appreciates the sacrifices of the awardees, assuring that the organization will continue to reward excellence in leadership.
See the full list of awardees:
1. Babagana Zulum – Best Governor Of The Year (Housing /Education)
2. Dave Umahi – Best Governor Of Year The Year (Infrastructure)
3. Bello Matawalle – Best Governor Of The Year [Health /Empowerment]
4. Peter Obi – Man Of The Year
5. Orji Kalu – Best Senator of the Year (Constituency Projects)
6. Nkechi Ikpeazu – First Lady of The Year
7. Judith Amaechi – Life Time Achievement Award (Youth/Girl Child Empowerment)
8. Uba Sani – Best Senator Of the Year (Empowerment)
9. Betta Edu – Woman Of the Year
10. Shehu Sani – Human Rights Crusader of the Year
11. Rabiu Olowo
12. Lucy Ajayi – Best Trade Administrator of the Year
13. Tonye Cole – Businessman of the Year
14. Martin Agbili – Fire Fighter of the Year
15. Ogenna Ekwubiri – Youth Advocate of the Year
16. Maureen Ideozu – Export Innovator of the Year
17. Ngozi Ezeonu – Lifetime Achievement Award (Entertainment)
18. Maureen Tamuno – Female Diplomat Of the Year
19. Elvis Abuyere – Investment And Automobile Brand of the Year
20. Unyime Idem – Best House Of Representatives Member
21. Yusuf Zailani – Outstanding Political leader of the Year
22. Stella Okotete – Public Banker of the Year
23. David Oladugbagbe – Humanitarian of the Year
24. Kingsley Azonobi – Real Estate Brand of the Year
25. Olumayowa Olurishe – Young Real Estate Personality of the Year
26. Kenneth Ifekudu – Most Innovative Architecture Company of the Year
27. Ahmad Umar – Philanthropist of the Year
28. Nasiru Idris – Social Crusader of the Year
29. Kanu Nwankwo – Football Legend of the Year
30. Chris Imumolen – Educationist of the Year
31. Shuibu Jaja – LGA Chairman of the Year
32. Anthony Monjaro – Best Actor Of the Year
33. Mr Funny – Best Online Comedian of the Year
34. Ashmail Ashafa – Regional Planner of the Year
35. Omoefe Ejere – Hospitality Personality of the Year
36. Mc Tagwaye – Best Comedian of the Year
37. Juliet Ibrahim – Most inspirational book of the year
38. Asita Honourable – Public Servant of the Year
39. Daniel Oniko – Banker of the Year
40. Eberechukwu Nwizu – Best Actress of the Year
41. Micheal Odid – Event/Project Manager of the Year
42. Bolingo Experia – Hotel of the Year (Customer Service /Entertainment)
A man, identified simply as Akpos, is on the run after allegedly burning his wife, Risikat, to death at their residence on Ayide Osolo Street, Divine Estate, in the Ijanikin area of Lagos State.
PUNCH Metro gathered that Akpos and Risikat were at their residence when an argument ensued between them.
The argument reportedly degenerated and Akpos, out of annoyance, reached for petrol, poured it on his wife and set her ablaze.
After perpetrating the crime, Akpos was said to have abandoned the woman for dead and fled the premises.
Some good Samaritans reportedly rushed the victim to a nearby hospital for treatment, as the matter was reported at the Ijanikin Police Station for investigation.
The state Police Public Relations Officer, SP Benjamin Hundeyin, said Risikat sustained severe burns, adding that she died while receiving treatment in the hospital.
He said, “A case was reported at the Ijanikin Police Station that a woman, Risikat, 48, allegedly had an altercation with her husband and in the process, he poured petrol on his wife and set her ablaze.
“It resulted in serious bodily burns and she was immediately rushed to a hospital for treatment but she died. Efforts are on to arrest the fleeing husband.”
In another development, commercial motorcyclists on Thursday lynched a yet-to-be-identified man for allegedly attempting to steal a motorcycle around Ara Junction, Agric Road, in the Egan area of Igando, Lagos.
Our correspondent learnt that a motorcyclist was heading for a destination when two suspected thieves ambushed him at an area close to the junction.
The suspects were said to have inflicted injuries on the victim, as they dispossessed him of his motorcycle.
The hoodlums were reportedly taking away the motorcycle when some passersby raised the alarm, which attracted the attention of other motorcyclists in the area.
The group gave the suspects a hot chase and caught up with them at Ara Junction, where they descended on them.
The angry motorcyclists were said to have subjected the suspects to jungle justice as one of them was burnt.
Reacting to the incident, the state police spokesperson, Hundeyin, said the corpse had been deposited in a morgue.
“By the time the police got to the scene, everybody had fled,” he added.
The Minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed, has said that the Federal Government is monitoring Twitter closely under the new ownership of Elon Musk.
The FG had in 2021 banned the social media platform, claiming it was being used as a medium to spread fake news and hate speech in an attempt to destablisie the country’s unity.
However, the minister who spoke at a news conference in Abuja on Thursday, said there is no intention of banning the platform again.
The minister reportedly said since the new ownership, he had been asked severally if another ban was coming.
He said, “We have no intention of banning any social media platform again. But we will also not sit by and allow any platform whatsoever to throw our nation into crisis.
“Let me say this, We are closely monitoring the evolving developments at Twitter. It has never been our intention to ban any social media platform or stifle free speech. Not at all.
The Kaduna State Government has said that its attention was drawn to a widely circulated message raising alarm on an alleged blockage of the Kaduna-Abuja road by bandits, which was not true.
Samuel Aruwan Commissioner,
Ministry of Internal Security and Home Affairs, Kaduna State said in a statement on Thursday that the Kaduna State Government wishes to firmly debunk this message, and advised citizens to completely disregard the mischievous circulation.
“The Kaduna State Government is in constant touch with security agencies in the general area, and constantly following security situation on the Kaduna-Abuja Road and other locations under watch”.
“The Government is not living in denial of security challenges confronting the State, but it is quite unfortunate how some individuals and groups continue to undermine sacrifices of security agencies and the government,” the state government said.
The Taraba state police command, Thursday said it has nabbed a suspected fighter of the Cameroon Separatist group, Ambazonia in the state.
The suspect, called General Basile was nabbed in Kurmi local government area.
The state Commissioner of Police, CP Abimbola Shokoya, confirmed the arrest during a dialogue with political parties in preparation for the general elections.
He also said investigation is ongoing and assured that the suspect would be prosecuted.
The High Court of the Federal Capital Territory in Abuja on Thursday put aside the contempt proceedings and all the directives of conviction for contempt against Abdulrasheed Bawa, the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.
Justice Chizoba Oji set aside the proceedings today after hearing an application brought by Bawa.
The application was brought pursuant to Section 6(6) (a) and Section 36(1) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended), Section 91 of the Sheriffs and Civil Process Act, Cap S6 Laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 2004 and other relevant enactments.
According to the court, at the time of the order, Bawa was not in contempt of court as he had complied with the order that the respondent’s Range Rover be released and by several internal memoranda, the applicant had initiated the EFCC’s internal mechanism to make the payment of the sum of N40,000,000 to the respondent.
Recall that Bawa was earlier this week convicted to Kuje correctional facilities for contempt of court, pending the setting aside of the order.
Justice Oji ruled that the EFCC Chairman failed to obey an order of November 21, 2018.
The court had instructed the return of seized assets comprising the sum of N40 million and a Range Rover.
The Federal Government, alongside other stakeholders in the health sector, on Monday in Abuja, inaugurated the National Electronic Pharmacy Policy and Strategic Implementation Plan...
