Funke Akindele Honoured With Varsity Award At University of Ibadan

By Benjamin onaghinor

Funke Akindele the Nollywood actress popularly called Jenifa recently gave a good account of herself in the area of motivational but inspirational talks at The University of Ibadan where she was honoured.
Stepping into the venue of the award with her husband, Kenny Doo Almaroof Oloyede around 7:13pm prestigiously, the halls was so electrifying and up and down as the shout of Jenny Baby rend the air.
Funke was honored with an award of recognition by the students of the University of Ibadan at the much talked about “STAND-OUT with Pat Obilor” talk show which took place on Friday, 22nd June, at the Trenchard Hall of the University. When they both stepped in, it was like the long awaited moment had finally come.
The excited host of the show, Pat Obilor, shortly after, invited Jenifa to the podium for a thrilling 25 minutes interview session. Jenifa encouraged youths to stand out positively, charging students to discover their God- given talents, nurture it and Stand-out positively.
“Young people face a lot of issues which needs to be addressed and this is what is pushing me to work harder. Don’t forget, this is my passion and I love doing it and I thank God for the husband I have, he also loves my job,” she stated, She further explained, “my mum and my husband have influenced me, even before we got married; he sits me down and talks to me anytime I’m going astray in my job. Some of my colleagues, the Veterans and most of all the fear of God have influenced me.”
Talking about life after her wedding, she said; “One has to be responsible now, you have to think for two. Now I can’t just wake up and decide to go to London or anywhere, I have to discuss with someone. I prefer it now thou.”
The high point of the talk show was when Jenifa danced to Wizkid’s ‘Pakurumo’ by popular demand of the audience.
The show came to a crescendo with the presentation of the award of recognition for her contributions to youth development through her socially conscious movies. The award presentation was done by Dr. Richard Adeleye Afonja, an award recipient as well.

Nigerian Army rescues 300 human

trafficking victims

By Benjamin onaghinor

The Kogi State Army Commandant of Quick Respond Group Team, Maj. Gen. Alphonsus Chukwu, on Sunday said the team rescued no fewer than 300 human trafficking victims.

Speaking during a media briefing in Lokoja, he said the victims, who came from Benue State, were rescued along Itobe-Ajaokuta and Okene Road on Saturday during a ‘stop and search’ operation.

He added that the victims comprised children and adults both male and female.

Chukwu said the ages of the children ranged from 10 to 15 years while the adults were above 18 years, adding that they were heading to Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Ondo and Ekiti states.

He said many of them were incoherent when questioned while some said they were going to seek holiday jobs.

Chukwu said it was shocking when buses were stopped for search and over 300 passengers were heading for the same destination in suspicious circumstances.

On Friday, a human trafficking suspect, Mr. Sunday Agbo from Benue State, was arrested by the task force with 10 children comprising boys and girls.

During interrogation, Agbo allegedly said he had been in the trade for close to a decade.

He further claimed that the alleged trafficking was done with the consent of the children’s parents.

He said the parents were paid N5, 000 per child with the promise that their children would be assisted to secure jobs as house-helps in Lagos and other states.

why I Signed Jaysleek - D'Banj Speaks

By Benjamin onaghinor

It is no news that former Mohits star, D'Banj has signed top music producer, Jaysleek on his new label, D'Banj Records, but the reasons he signed him.

The Kanye West's G.O.O.D Music artiste has revealed the motive behind him inviting Jeremiah Shelika, popularly known as Jaysleek to join his new team. D'Banj confessed, "This has been a long time coming. So, we are really happy to see Jaysleek join the D'Banj family.

"It's exciting to be working with one of the best; Jaysleek is a fantastic producer, hardworking, humble, and immensely creative. I'm so certain that he will carve a niche for himself here at D'Banj Records and inspire us to even greater music.”

On the part of Jaysleek, “I'm honoured to be part of such a young, fresh, innovative team; there's so much energy here, it's simply incredible. We're going to keep on making great music for our fans for a very long time to come, you can be sure of that!”

Jaysleek has produced hit songs for 2Face, Face, Wizkid, Davido, Sound Sultan, Timaya amongst others. He recently produced D'Banj's first song after Mohits split, 'Oyato'.

ACN, ARP ask Tukur to resign over subsidy scam

 

By Benjamin onaghinor

Action Congress of Nigeria has called on the Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, Alhaji Bamanga Tukur, to resign, following the alleged involvement of his son in the fuel subsidy scam. The ACN described the subsidy scam as the biggest corruption case in Nigeria’s history. Meanwhile, the African Renaissance Party also called on the PDP chairman to resign.

The ARP said, “Is it a coincidence that the stars in the court trial of the subsidy scam include the sons of the past and present chairmen of the PDP? Will it be wrong to say the sons of Ahmadu Ali and Tukur benefitted from the subsidy largesse because of their father’s positions in the ruling party?”

In a statement in Lagos on Sunday 29^th July 2012 by its National Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, the party said Tukur’s resignation “would also ensure that the trial of suspects in the scam – including his son – would go unimpeded and save the country’s anti-corruption battle”.

The ACN said it subscribed to the constitutional provision that deems an accused person innocent until proven guilty, hence its intervention is not about the guilt or otherwise of the accused in the case.

It said, “It is important to say here that the fuel subsidy scam trial will be held in two courts: the court of law and the court of public opinion. While Alhaji Bamanga Tukur is not facing any charges in the court of law over the scam, he is definitely a star suspect in the court of public opinion.

“That is why many Nigerians are already insinuating that nothing will come out of the trial, especially as far as his son is concerned. This is an allusion to the influence bestowed upon him by his high office.

“While we have nothing but absolute confidence in the ability of the judicial process to ensure justice, we believe that anything that can reinforce the impression of thwarted justice in the fuel subsidy scam trial should be removed. Alhaji Bamagar Tukur’s continued stay in office is one of such.

“We also believe that since Tukur, as the PDP chairman, has a say in who becomes the chair of the boards of the key agencies in the oil sector that are linked to fuel subsidy (NNPC, PPPRA and PEF), his continued stay in office is inimical to efforts to clean up the tainted sector.’’

Cult War between Aiye confraternity and Black Axe in Benin-City leaves 6 dead

By benjamin onaghinor

Four persons in the last two days were reportedly killed at different locations in Benin City, the Edo State capital following a renewed cult war between Aiye confraternity and Black Axe.

The latest was the murder of a middle-aged man at a beer parlor along Zabayor Street in Benin at about 10: 30 pm Tuesday night.

He was said to have been trailed by his assailants numbering about six, who stormed the drinking joint and on sighting their target opened fire on him repeatedly on the head as other customers at the beer parlour took to their heels.

Edo State Joint Task Force, (JTF), was said to have arrived the scene shortly after the assailants had fled scene.

Aiye fraternity and Black Axe have been engaged in an age-long supremacy tussle which had left over 30 dead and several others injured in past three years.

One Nosa Ebohon, an engineering graduate of the University of Benin popularly called ‘biggy” was also killed yesterday along Adolor College Road.

He was said to have been invited by unknown person to a beer palour, on appearing for the invitation two armed youths shot at him on the chest.

The body of the ‘biggy’ has been reportedly deposited at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital. Sources have, however, attributed the renewed gang war in the state to fallout occasioned by the ‘sharing formula’ of largesse from politicians in the just concluded governorship election in the state.

Jude 'Engees' Okoye donates N1million to brain tumor patient, Ibezim Osemeke

Jude 'Engees' Okoye donates N1million to brain tumor patient, Ibezim Osemeke

                                 

On Saturday July 28th, I put up a post on this blog asking for donations for brain tumor patient, Ibezim Jude Osemeke. (If you missed it, read it HERE) Ibezim needed 3.7 million for surgery in India.

Jude 'Engees' Okoye, the elder of Paul and Peter Okoye popularly known as P-Square, saw the post and contacted me and the Ibezim family. As soon as he confirmed Ibezim really needed help ASAP, the prolific music director who recently lost his mum, made a N1 million donation.

Jude didn't particularly want his donation made public but I had to convince him to let me talk about it. For one, my amebor won't let me..hehe, and two, talking about his generosity is a way to encourage others to give...to make a difference in someone's life. I know for sure Ibezim is beyond ecstatic about this donation and is extremely grateful. Other LIB readers are also donating. May God bless you all. May God bless Jude Okoye. May God bless LIB. We do good here!  clue 4rm linda ikeji

Fan gets more than they paid for!

By Benjamin onaghinor

Nicki Minaj is known for her over-the-top performances, but she got more than she bargained for when a fan jumped on stage and grabbed her at her Pink Friday Tour stop in Miami on Wednesday. Security quickly intervened and escorted the man off stage. Minaj thanked fans for the love and went on with the show. The Pink Friday Tour continues through November.

Gaga going bigscreen

By Benjamin onaghinor

Little monsters will get to see even more Lady Gaga on camera, and not in a new music video. The pop star will be making her acting debut in Machete Kills. Director Robert Rodriguez announced her role as “La Chameleon” Thursday on Twitter, saying he was “blown away.” Gaga was equally pleased, writing on her account that “filming was insane.” She’s joining a star-studded cast, which includes appearances from Mel Gibson, Charlie Sheen and Jessica Alba. Machete Kills, the next chapter in the Machete series, will open next year

FCT minister defends revocation of Turai’s land in Abuja

 

By Benjamin onaghinor

Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Senator Bala Mohammed, has defended the action of the FCT administration in revoking the plot of land allocated to the former first lady, Hajiya Turai Yar’Adua’s NGO, ‘Women and Youth Empowerment Foundation (WAYEP).’The FCT, however, restored the same plot of land to its alleged original owners, the African First Ladies Peace Mission for the building of its secretariat in Abuja.

In a press statement, signed by the Special Assistant on Media to the FCT minister, Mr. Nosike Ogbuenyi in Abuja yesterday, the minister faulted the statement credited to the National Publicity Secretary of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), Alhaji Lai Mohammed at the weekend, claiming that the FCT minister took ‘a choice plot’ from former Hajiya Yar’Adua’s NGO, Women and Youth Empowerment Foundation (WAYEP) and reallocated it to the incumbent First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan’s NGO, ‘African First Ladies Peace Mission.’

The statement condemned Mohammed’s statement as not only misleading, but a blackmail against the Dame Jonathan and the FCT Minister, Mohammed. According to the statement, there is no scandal whatsoever with regard to the altruistic corrective measure by the FCT minister to restore the land to the original allottee, the African First Ladies Peace Mission.

He said the minister deserved kudos not umbrage for his effort in retrieving the land from a private NGO and returning the same to its original allottee, the African First Ladies Peace Mission for the development of its continental secretariat in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital city.

The statement reads: “It is indeed sad for the ACN chieftain to either ignorantly or deliberately declare that the African First Ladies Peace Mission, a standing NGO of the AU belongs to the current First Lady, Dame Patience Goodluck Jonathan, all in a bid to score cheap political points.”The statement continued: “Lai Mohammed’s claim that the land for the building of the African First Ladies Peace Centre was first allocated to Hajia Turai Yar’Adua’s NGO, Women and Youth Empowerment Foundation (WAYEP), is totally false and untenable.

“The records are there and clear for all to see, showing that the land was first allocated to the African First Ladies Peace Mission (c/o the Office of the First Lady) for the building of its secretariat in Abuja.”

Fuel subsidy trial: More suspects to be arraigned today

By Benjamin onaghinor
LAGOS— Five days after they were granted bail by an Ikeja High court, sons of the incumbent and former chairmen of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Mahmud Tukur and Ahmadu Ali and three other oil marketers who were docked last Thursday, are still in the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.  This came as more of the alleged oil subsidy scam suspects will be arraigned today. The three others arraigned alongside Mahmud and Ahmadu were Abdulahi Alao, son of Alhaji Arisekola Alao, an Ibadan based businessman; a Sierra-Leonean, Christian Taylor and Ochonogor Alex. They were accused of defrauding the Federal Government of N304 billion in the oil subsidy scam.  After their arraignment last Thursday, Justice Adeniyi Onigbanjo of Ikeja High Court granted them bail in the sum of N20 million with two sureties in like sum. One of the sureties must be a level 16 officer in the Lagos State or Federal Civil Service. The other one must own a property worth N200 million.  It was gathered, however, that all their efforts to meet the bail conditions last Friday, the last working day, were futile.     As at Saturday evening, B1 magazine was reliably informed that the accused were yet to fulfill the bail conditions, especially getting sureties on level 16.     Another major hurdle before them was the verification of the particulars of the sureties as ordered by the court as well as getting the state officials to verify the property they intend to use as one of the conditions stipulated by the court.      In Lagos State, it was gathered that the state officials will have to visit and value the property and ensure that the property is properly evaluated and that necessary land charges have been paid before approval for the bail.   Some of the counsel to the oil marketers were sighted at the premises of the High Court Ikeja at about 5.30 pm on Friday, moving from one office to the other, trying to perfect the bail conditions.   One of the court officials, who spoke on condition of anonymity said, “the way things are going, I doubt if they will finish the process before Wednesday. As I am talking, they are yet to get a level 16 officer to stand in for three of them. “You know the process is long and cumbersome.  They are yet to get or clear the issue of tax clearance which is the most difficult aspect now in Lagos State. Apart from getting the tax clearance, the state officials will visit the property being used as guarantee and value it with their valuers and also ensure that proper ‘land use charges’ are paid on the property.”   Meanwhile, an Ibadan-based businessman, Alhaji Arisekola Alao has said his son Abdullahi who is facing trial in Lagos over oil subsidy scam is an adult and a businessman doing business like every other Nigerian. In a statement, yesterday, he said Abdulahi Alao “is answerable for his actions and transactions under the law of the land. As an adult and a true Muslim, there is no doubt that he knows what is wrong and what is right”.

Eddie Murphy 'Dies' Again

Actor and comedian Eddie Murphy is again the victim of social media murder after a website, Global Associated News, set Twitterablaze with reports of his death.












“Actor Eddie Murphy is reported to have died shortly after a snowboard accident earlier today – July 24, 2012,” read the article.
The site went on to explain that the Dr. Dolittle star had gone on holiday with family and friends in Zermatt ski resort, Switzerland when the “incident” happened.
“Witnesses indicate that Eddie Murphy lost control of his snowboard and struck a tree at a high rate of speed. Eddie Murphy was air lifted by ski patrol teams to a local hospital, however, it is believed that the actor died instantly from the impact of the crash”
Failing to notice the fine print disclaimer at the bottom of the page, social media users conveyed the death hoax causing a barrage of condolence tweets before the truth was finally unveiled.

Speaking to E News, Murphy’s representative confirmed that the rumor was indeed a hoax.
“Trust me, Eddie is very much alive and well…and definitely not in Switzerland snowboarding.”
Ironically, this is not the first time Eddie Murphy has been rumored dead. The same website published a similar story in February this year saying the actor met his demise in another snow boarding accident.
Murphy joins the list of celebrities who have experienced death hoaxes such as Charlie Sheen, Adam Sandler, Will Smith, Paris Hilton and Tiger Woods.A Clue from Naij blogger

Bracket Moves Into Expensive Lekki Home

The duo of Vast and Smash of Bracket music group, who stormed the music scene with a big bang few years ago, have relocated from their base in Tajudeen Olanrewaju Estate, Yaba, to a more expensive and posh duplex apartment Bourdilon Court, Lekki, highbrow of Lagos.

This has now made the Yori-Yori crooner join the league of entertainment big wigs residing on havens of the rich in the society. The music group relocated to their new abode few weeks ago.

Speaking on why the award-winning singers relocated, their publicist, Square Image Associates (SIA) said, “Island is the centre of the entertainment industry.

"Virtually all our activities are here, and you know that in business, proximity is very important. So it is on this premise that we decided to relocate.”

Meanwhile, the second phase of the musical group’s tour of the United States of America commence on Saturday, 4 August, 2012 in Baltimore before movie to other cities such as Minnesota, Atlanta, Rode Island, Chicago, Miami, New York and Philadelphia where they will also be given a honorary award by the Mayor of Philadelphia.

Bracket, who has also been nominated for this year’s NEA awards, just released the video of the song entitled 'Looking For You' on Wednesday, last week. The video was shot in South Africa and directed by Godfather.

Rick Ross storms Lagos

Come Friday, August 17,2012, American born international rapper, William Leonard Roberts II popularly known as Rick Ross, will storm the commercial nerve centre of Nigeria, Lagos for the Summer Jam Fest 2012 concert at the exquisite Eko hotel and Suites. The Florida native who made headlines with his debut album in 2006 titled ‘’Port of Miami” will headline the music concert alongside other Nigerian acts. The music concert is powered by St. Eve Concepts Limited, the owner of popular magazine, St. Eve. Summer Jam Fest 2012 is geared to set the tone for an annual concert to promote health and proper lifestyle, and this year, some of the hottest Nigerian artists of the year will be performing alongside the aforementioned big acts. St Eve Concepts aims to promote healthy living through music and entertainment. St. Eve Concepts is an internal Wellness and Enzymatic Weight Management Company which was founded in 2006 and remains the first and only Enzymatic Health care service provider in West Africa. In 2010, St. Eve Concepts launched a quarterly magazine about health, beauty, fashion and lifestyle called St. Eve Magazine. It would be recalled that Rick Ross released his fifth studio album “God Forgives, I Don’t” earlier this year and also collaborated with hit Nigerian duet P-Square on the remix of the well-known song “Beautiful Oyinye, a song that has dominated the airwaves since it debuted.

Tuface Visits Big Brother House

 

Iconic Nigerian singer-songwriter, 2face Idibia has joined the list of celebrities that have made an appearance in the on-going Big Brother Stargame show.

Idibia, 36, surprised the house mates when he made his entry causing them to abandon their activities in recognition of his presence.

As the celebrity guest, 2face lectured the house mates on their new status as celebrities and advised that they use it judiciously.
‘You are already one campaign ambassadors…You are now celebrities so your voice is important‘, he told them.
2face is the second Nigerian singer to appear in the house following Davido’s performance on Sunday, July 8, 2012.

P-Square Thanks Fans

 

Peter Okoye of the popular pop group, Psquare, has thanked fans and friends for their support following the death of their mother, Josephine Okoye.

Via twitter, the 30 year old singer/dancer said the entire Okoye family is grateful to the fans for their support during this trying time.

‘All Psquare fans, thank u so much for all your kind words, love and concern during this very difficult time in our lives. U guys are the best. 1 luv!‘, @ PeterPsquare tweeted.

Josephine Okoye passed away on Wednesday, July 11, 2012, after a heart surgery in India.

Dakore Returns In New Movie "Journey To Self"

 

Popular actress, Dakore Akande (nee Egbuson) is set to make a return to the movies, with a role in a new movie titled Journey To Self.













The movie is being directed by Tope Oshin Ogun (Tinsel), and it also features Kalu Ikeagwu, Nse Ikpe Etim, Ashionye Ugboh-Racah, Femi Jacobs, Toyin Sido, and Catherine Edoho.
Following her marriage in January 2011 to Olumide Akande, it had been speculated that Dakore would quit acting. However, with her appearance in Journey To Self, it appears she is not quite ready to call it quits with acting

UNILAG Ranked 16 Out Of 100 Top Universities In Africa

The University of Lagos has taken the 16th
position in the recent ranking of Top 100 Universities and Colleges in Africa by the 4icu.org University Web Ranking.
University of Cape Town, South Africa was the first on the list, followed closely by University of Stellenbosch, South Africa. The first six Universities on the list were South African Universities.
Other Nigerian Universities that made the list and their positions are University of Ilorin (39),University of Ibadan (40), Obafemi Awolowo University (42), University of Benin (45),University of Port Harcourt (52), University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (64), Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria (84) and University of Jos (88).
According to 4icu.org, this ranking is based on web popularity.
4 International Colleges & Universities is an international higher education search engine and directory reviewing accredited Universities and Colleges in the world. 4icu.org includes 11,000 Colleges and Universities, ranked by web popularity, in 200 countries.
The current ranking is based upon an algorithm including three unbiased and independent web metrics extracted from three different search engines.

Turai vs Patience: FG opts for out-of-court settlement of land dispute

ABUJA — In a bid to save Nigeria from further embarrassment, the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mohammed Bello Adoke, SAN, Tuesday, urged an Abuja High Court sitting at Bwari to discontinue further hearing on the lingering land dispute between Dame Patience Jonathan and wife of late President Umar Musa Yar’Adua, Turai.

The two women had plunged into cold war after the Certificate of Occupancy for a parcel of land originally allocated to a Non-Governmental Organisation, NGO, “The Registered Trustee of Women and Youth Empowerment Foundation, WYEF”, a pet project initiated by Turai Yar’Adua, was revoked by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Senator Bala Mohammed, and re-awarded to Patience Jonathan for the construction of a secretariat of the “First Ladies Peace Mission.”

Turai Yar’Adua and Dame Patience Jonathan

Specifically, the Registered Trustees of WYEF had applied and was granted an allocation of Plot 1347at the Cadastral Zone A00, Abuja, after paying N184,529,438 as statutory Right of Occupancy and was duly issued with the C of O by the FCT Minister.
Meanwhile, under the terms of grant, the plaintiff was given three years to develop the property based on approved building plans.
After the payments of the various levies, the plaintiff paid additional N76, 936,210.00 as building plan fees after which the grant and approval of the building plans were made and given in line with the master plan for Abuja.
The plaintiff told the court that shortly after it engaged a building company, Al-Cooks Nigeria Limited, to develop the property for N13, 516,013,797.58, the FCT Administration led by Bala Mohammed, on November 1, 2011, asked it to pay additional N18,529,438, which it said was also paid.
It, however, lamented that after the various payments were made, the FCT Minister, without reason, issued a notice of revocation of the said property which it allocated to the plaintiff for the purpose of building public institution (Training/Vocational Centre). It noted that the said letter of revocation was backdated with effect from October 27, 2011.
Meanwhile, Turai’s NGO stressed that it decided to seek redress in court upon discovering that the same piece of land was re-allocated to another organisation sponsored by Jonathan’s wife.
Also joined as defendants in the suit with No. FCT/HC/CV/2591/2010 included the AGF, FCT Minister and the Abuja Geographic Information System, AGIS.
Sequel to the suit, the court presided by Justice Peter Affen, issued an order barring the FCT Administration, AGIS and the AGF from carrying out further activities at the site.
However, while the order of the court was still subsisting, the defendants in defiance of the said order mobilised people to the site to commence construction work.
The action prompted counsel to WAYE, Innocent Lagi, to initiate contempt proceedings against the respective defendants.
Nevertheless, before hearing could commence on the contempt charge, the AGF, last Friday, approached the court, asking it to vacate the restraining order.
Though Justice Affen ordered that all the necessary parties must be put on notice, the AGF, yesterday, re-approached the court, begging it to allow the matter to be settled-out-of court.
Counsel to the AGF, Mr Baba Sa’idu further told the court that his client had already reached out to the aggrieved party for an amicable settlement of the dispute.
After listening to his submissions, Justice Affen adjourned till September 24 to receive the report of settlement.
Meanwhile, the case been adjourned till September 24, 2012 for report of settlement.
Adducing reasons why the case should be discontinued, Adoke earlier told the court “the previous allocations were duly revoked and a fresh allocation made out to the African Peace Mission in overriding interest.”
“The invitations to the members of the African Union’s First Ladies Peace Mission had already gone out and it would be most humiliating for Nigeria in the diplomatic circle to make an about-turn at this time, given, the time constraint to effect any other changes in venue,” he added.

John Mahama to be sworn in as President

 of Ghana soon

According to the constitution of the Republic of Ghana the Vice President John Dramani Mahama is to take over as interim leader as Presidential elections are set for December .

The late president had recently traveled to the United States for what had been described as a routine medical checkup. Mills took over as Ghana’s president in January 2009. He narrowly won the vote in 2008 by a less than one percent margin against a candidate from the party of incumbent John Kufuor, widely respected for having bowed out following his two terms in office.Atta Mills’ profile

Late President of the Republic of Ghana, Professor John Evans Atta Mills, was born at Tarkwa on July 21st, 1944. He hails from Ekumfi Otuam in the Central Region. Prof. Mills launched a lifelong learning at Achimota Secondary School, where he completed the Advanced Level Certificate in 1963.

To further his education, he attended the University of Ghana, Legon where he received a Bachelor’s Degree and Professional Certificate in Law (1967). While earning the PhD in Oriental and African Studies from the University of London at the age of 27, Dr. Mills was selected as a Fulbright Scholar at Stanford Law School (USA). Prof. Mills’ first formal teaching assignment was as a Lecturer at the Faculty of Law at the University of Ghana, Legon. He spent more than twenty five years imparting acquired knowledge to students, and rose in position from Lecturer to Senior Lecturer to Associate Professor. His contribution to the University was remarkable having served on numerous Boards, Committees, and Schemes. Also during those twenty five years, Prof. Mills travelled as a Visiting Lecturer and Professor to Temple University (USA) and Leiden University (Holland), and presented research papers at Symposiums and Conferences throughout the world. Prof. Mills had more than one dozen publications to his credit. These include: Taxation of Periodical or Deferred Payments arising from the Sale of Fixed Capital (1974) Exemption of Dividends from Income Taxation: A critical Appraisal (1977) Report of the Tax Review Commission, Ghana, Parts 1, 2 & 3, (1977) and

Ghana’s Income Tax laws and the Investor. An inter-faculty lecture published by the University of Ghana. His expertise goes well beyond the classroom, and is evidenced by the various examiner positions he held with finance related institutions throughout Ghana (i.e. Institute of Chartered Accountants, Institute of Bankers, Ghana Tax Review Commission). As an advocate for recreation, active sportsman and sports fan, Prof. Mills has supported the community through groups such as the Ghana Hockey Association, National Sports Council of Ghana, and Accra Hearts of Oak Sporting Club. The following are a few of his activities and projects: Member of the Ghana Stock Exchange Council Board of Trustees, Mines Trust. Management Committee of Commonwealth Administration of Tax Experts. United Nations Ad Hoc Group of Experts in International Cooperation in Tax Matters 7 United Nations Law and Population Project. Study on Equipment Leasing in Ghana. Casebook preparation on Ghana’s Income Tax. Review of Ghana’s Double Tax Agreement with the UK.

A track record of financial knowledge and strong professional credentials led to several important appointments. In 1988, Prof. J. E. Atta Mills became the Acting Commissioner of the Internal Revenue Service of Ghana and named Commissioner in September 1996. In 1997, Prof. Mills became the Vice President of the Republic of Ghana and served in that capacity with former President J. J. Rawlings till 2000. On January 3, 2009, Prof. Mills was declared by the Electoral Commission as the President-elect of Ghana after a second presidential run-off of 2008 the Presidential Elections and was sworn into office as Executive President of the Republic of Ghana on Wednesday January 7, 2009. In July last year, Mills was nominated to be the ruling the National Democratic Congress party’s presidential candidate for December 2012 elections. The primary represented the first time in the country’s history that a sitting president competed for his own party’s nomination. Mills beat his only rival in the party primary, Nana Konadu Agyemang Rawlings, the wife of ex-military leader Jerry Rawlings. Ghana recently joined the ranks of the world’s large-scale oil producers.

We’ll impeach Jonathan if…, Reps vow

 

In spite of the criticisms that have trailed the recent impeachment threat issued to President Goodluck Jonathan, the House of Representatives yesterday affirmed its stand, insisting that no amount of blackmail would stop it from going ahead with the decision should the President fail to implement the budget as passed by the National Assembly.

The House also explained that the impeachment threat was borne out of national interest and patriotism of members of the House. It said statements suggesting that the lawmakers were sponsored by external forces was mischievous and misleading.

Chairman of the House Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Hon. Zakari Mohammed, who made this position known in a press statement yesterday, said, “Arising from Thursday’s 19th July 2012 plenary, which discussed extensively on the snail speed implementation of the 2012 Appropriation Act by Mr President and the attendant ultimatum issued, that if by 30th September 2012 when the House resumes from recess there is no marked improvement, the House would be left with no choice than to initiative impeachment proceedings.”

Mohammed argued, “This bold and patriotic step by the Seventh Assembly has attracted different comments from a lot of quarters, expectedly. Therefore, some sponsored news, editorials and commentaries chose to deliberately misinform the public on the rationale behind our nationalistic stand. For the avoidance of doubt, whilst we are aware that all revenue-generating agencies have surpassed their annual target by mid this year.

“The House is worried that this positive development did not reflect the implementation of the budget for the benefit of the Nigerian peoples.”

In affirming the stance of the House, the spokesman added, “To now conclude that our resolution for Thursday is borne out of selfish motives is terribly out of place. We would, however, continue to raise our voices to the highest ebb where we sight injustice or impunity, no amount of blackmail or intimidation would cow us to abdicate our constitutional responsibility which we signed with our employers the (Nigerian people) to stand firm and protect their interest.”

According to Mohammed, “To assume that we are guided by some forces outside the House of Representatives is mischievous and a deliberate ploy to misrepresent the House before the Nigerian public.”

He explained that the House has the constitutional responsibility to serve as check on the executive to strengthen instruments of governance especially on oversight.

In his words, “This trend, if not arrested, would worsen the already fragile state of the nation, hence the need for our quick intervention. To then insinuate that the House of Representatives took this noble step to satisfy pressure from a political party or because the constituency projects were not awarded to members or because of the drama that followed the presentation of the fuel subsidy report, is to say the least malicious, damaging and uncharitable to the image of the Assembly.”

Expatiating, the chairman noted, “We in the legislature are law-makers and not contractors and that the constituency projects execution has been the exclusive preserves of the executive and its agencies. At no time has there been any argument on this.”

Speaking further on constituency projects, Mohammed explained: “What members do in the course of the budget preparation is to furnish the respective MDAs with locations and areas of need of our constituencies. The bidding processes are handled by the supervising ministries. The entire 360 members in the House are bond by the Nigerian project. Our independence and objectiveness is evident in the selection of our principal officers, which we did according to our thoughts.”

On the $3 million bribery scandal, he said, “The 7th Assembly has distanced itself from the Hon. Farouk and Otedola case as evident in the bold steps we took in suspending him as chairman of both the committees on fuel subsidy and education. In addition to encouraging the law enforcement agencies to do their work according to the dictates of the law, we will continue to preserve our resolve as one indivisible country.”

Since the impeachment threat was issued last Thursday, several stakeholders, including the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leadership and the Senate president, David Mark, have intervened in the matter.

EFCC lists 1st batch of alleged fuel subsidy

fraudsters to be prosecuted

EFFC is now ready to prosecute fuel subsidy oles and they've released the names of the first batch of suspects to be prosecuted in court. There are seven companies and 12 individuals...and they are:

The companies: Nasaman Oil Services, Eternal Oil and Gas Plc, Ontario Oil & Gas Plc, Nadabo Energy Limited, Pacific Silver Line Limited, Axenergy Limited, and Fago Petroleum and Gas Limited.

The individuals: Mamman Nasir Ali, Christian Taylor, Mahmud Tukur, Ochonogor Alex, Walter Wagbatsoma, Adaoha Ugo-Ngadi, Fakuade Babafemi Ebenezer, Ezekiel Olaleye Ejidele, Abubakar Ali Peters, Jude Agube Abalaka, Abdulahi Alao and Oluwaseun Ogunbanbo.


Ezekiel Olaleye Ejidele is director of renowned accounting firm, Akintola Williams Delloite, while Fakuade Babafemi Ebenezer is a staff of the Petroleum Products Pricing and Regulating Agency (PPPRA).

Nasaman Oil Services, Mamman Nasir and Christian Taylor are to face charges bordering on obtaining N4,460,130,797.94 from the Federal Government of Nigeria under false pretence. The sum is alleged to have been fraudulently obtained as subsidy payments from the Petroleum Support Fund for the purported importation of 30.5m litres of Premium Motor Spirit from SEATAC Petroleum Limited of British Virgin Islands.

In the same vein, the anti-corruption agency will equally prosecute Abdulahi Alao and Axenergy Limited for allegedly obtaining the sum of N2,640,141,707.75, being payments received from the Petroleum Support Fund for the purported importation of 33.3million litres of Premium Motor Spirit.

Others include Mahmud Tukur, Ochonogor Alex, Abdulahi Alao and Eternal Oil And Gas Plc, who will be docked for fraudulently obtaining the sum of N1,899,238,946.02 from the Petroleum support Fund for a purported importation of 80.3million litres of Premium Motor Spirit.

Also, Nadabo Energy Limited, Abubakar Ali Peters, Jude Agube Abalaka and Pacific Silver Line Limited are to be prosecuted for allegedly obtaining the sum of N1,464,961,978.24, being payments fraudulently received from the Petroleum Support Fund for a purported importation of 19.4million litres of Premium Motor Spirit.

Walter Wagbatsoma, Adaoha Ugo-Ngadi, Fakuade Babafemi Ebenezer, Ezekiel Olaleye Ejidele and Ontario Oil & Gas Nigeria Limited will be arraigned for fraudulently obtaining the sum of N1,959,377,542.63 from the Petroleum Support Fund for a purported importation of 39.2million litres of Premium Motor Spirit.

Lastly, Fago Petroleum and Gas Limited and Oluwaseun Ogunbanbo are to be docked for fraudulently obtaining the sum of N979,653,110.20 from the Petroleum Support Fund for a purported importation of 33, 627, 84 litres of Premium Motor Spirit.

According to EFCC, the suspects are among a larger list of more than 140 individuals and organisations involved in ongoing investigations into the subsidy payments, and so more suspects will be arraigned periodically as the investigation progresses.

The Commission described the investigation as massive and extensive, and reassured Nigerians that it would do all within its powers to apprehend and punish all the people defrauded the country under the guise of subsidy for imported fuel.

Before now, there had been widespread belief that those involved could evade justice, as a number of high-profile national figures are thought to have spearheaded the scam. (TheWill Nigeria)

Ghana's President John Atta Mills dies

Ghana's President John Atta Mills, who was suffering from throat cancer, has died in the capital, Accra.

A statement from his office said the 68-year-old died a few hours after being taken ill, but did not give details.

"It is with a heavy heart...that we announce the sudden and untimely death of the president of the Republic of Ghana," the statement said.

Mr Atta Mills has ruled the West African country since 2009.

The BBC's Sammy Darko, who is at the military hospital in Accra, says Mr Atta Mill's voice has been degenerating in the last few months.

A presidential aide said the leader had complained of suffering pains on Monday evening and he died on Tuesday afternoon, Reuters reports.

He had returned to Ghana after visiting the US for medical checks, the news agency says.

Mr Atta Mills came to power after narrowly winning against a candidate from the then governing New Patriotic Party, Nana Akufo-Addo, in polls in December 2008.

He was to run for a second term in December.

Banky W opens up on his battle with cancer in latest Y! magazine

by Benjamin onaghinor

 

Singer and CEO of Empire Mate Entertainment (EME) Banky W is on the cover of the hot new issue 8 of highly reverred youth oriented publication Y! magazine, the “Power to the People” edition.

In the cover interview, Banky W speaks exclusively and candidly about his battle with cancer, his activism, and entrepreneurship in Nigeria. “When I was about to be operated on by a doctor, he cancelled while I was right there on the operating table, because he was nervous about how far it had spread and if he was expert enough to deal with it.”

“I think that’s when it set in on how serious it was, because we then had to go from one referral to another trying to find the specialist who could operate on this particular strain of cancerous tumours. It was arguably the scariest time of my life,” the EME boss said.

D'banj releases new single - Oyato

D'banj's new single Oyato will be released today Saturday July 14th. This is his first Nigerian release as an independent recording artist. The multiple-award-winning entertainer said 'Oyato' is his special dedication to his fans who have stood by him through it all.

Goldie evicted from Big Brother

Africa

After holding on strong for 68 days, Nigeria’s last standing contestant in Big Brother Stargame, Goldie, has been kicked out. The 28-year-old entertainer was evicted on Sunday, July 15, 2012, during the weekly eviction show. Goldie, who was nominated for evicted on Monday, July 9, 2012, got the least of the 15 votes, following Lady May, who had three and Prezzo, who had six. Minutes before the show, the Nigerian singer predicted her exit, telling Biggie that she would have loved to spend her last three hours in a good mood with her lover, Prezzo, but for some reason, felt it wouldn’t happen. ‘I would have wanted it to be different. I don’t think I will make it. I pray I do, but for some reason, I know I won’t make it‘, a sad Goldie said, after a fight she had with Prezzo over a missing ring, which he claimed was his grandmother’s. An unhappy Goldie refused Prezzo’s demand for a hug as she walked out of the house in tears. With this development, Nigeria is now out of the game, as the other two housemates, Ola and Chris, voluntarily left the house on Friday, May 18, 2012.

The mother of Paul, Peter and Jude Okoye has sadly passed  away

The mother of one of Africa's prominent music duo, P Square(Peter and Paul Okoye) is dead.

Their mother Mrs Josephine Okoye died on Wednesday evening. Mrs Okoye who was ill for a while, had been receiving treatment at St Nicholas Hospital in Lagos, before she was flown to India for further treatment.
The cause of death is still not known, and no statement has been released by any of the family members.
Mrs Okoye who has been a huge supporter of Peter and Paul career made her last public appearance at the Psquare Invasion concert in 2011..pls  drop your Condolences comments

 I will become the president of Nigeria 2015– Majek Fashek

The rain maker: Majek Fashek

On June 12, 2012, a press conference which was supposed to kick off by 12 noon didn’t start until around 3.30p.m. due to a heavy downpour which prevented many of the journalists from getting to the Club Royal, Ikeja, Lagos, venue of the press conference in good time. Some journalists who had come very early in their cars had to leave when the event failed to start way behind schedule due to impatience or the thought that the organisers might be pulling a prank on them that they were unveiling Majek Fashek that many have reported to be having a mental problem, amidst other unpleasant tales.

On the other hand if any one considers that the subject at the centre of the press conference himself is the “RainMaker,” then the terrible rain that almost prevented the event from holding will not be a surprise.

For a few of us who managed to wait, our patience was soon rewarded with the ‘rain maker Majek Fashek showing up around 3.30p.m with Hajia Oluremi Dangaji, the woman who saved his life (and that is a story for another day).

Born Majekodunmi Fasheke to an Edo mother and a Yoruba father, the story of Majek Fashek has never ceased to generate the question about what went wrong.

Fashek, who in his hey days attracted international attention with such albums as “The Prisoner of Conscience,” “Spirit of Love” and “The Rainmaker,” was once signed unto Interscope records, one of America’s biggest record companies (the same company which signed late rapper, 2Pac). His album with them “Spirit of Love” was produced by renowned producer Van “Little Steven” Zandt.

This talented guitarist, who started out as a member of a Benin-based reggae group Jastix comprising Ras Kimono and Amos McRoy Greg as at 1992, had the rare privilege of featuring on a major TV platform, the famous David Letterman’s Show. And wait for this, Majek Fashek was once tipped as the successor to the late Bob Marley due to his vocal quality that has been described as being on the same range with Marley himself.

However, all that glory unbelievably disappeared from Majek Fashek in a hurry, no thanks to the evil menace of narcotic drugs which he got involved in while abroad. Coral Music Group brought him back in 2004 with the album “Little Patience” which records a reasonable success for an artiste who had just been allegedly rehabilitated, but it wasn’t long before Majek Fashek went back to his old life of drug abuse. He’s been in Nigeria for some months now and another person, Hajia Dangaji, CEO of A-Plus Entertainment, has decided to give him another shot at stardom. Majek Fashek spoke with Benjamin onaghinor at the venue of the press conference.

Do you think you can still make a remarkable comeback?

I don’t know what you are talking about when you ask if I can make a remarkable comeback, but I tell you my coming back from America is to save Nigerian music. In America, Nigerian musicians are not shining. I want to put Nigerian music where it belongs. The only Nigerian musicians whose names ring a bell in America is Fela Kuti, Femi Kuti and King Sunny Ade. I took the risk to come back to Nigeria. I have come to save Nigerians.

What do you mean by you have come to save Nigerians?

Bob Marley talked about second slavery, Fela also talked about that. The government is imprisoning Nigeria and I want to save my people from them. God gave me a message of the sceptre while I was in America. God told me to come and save the sceptre.

What’s the sceptre?

My people are the sceptres. Look at me; I’m not suffering in America. I have money. As I’m here I get four thousand dollars to Five thousand dollars every month from radio play of my song in America, but God said, “Go, go and save Nigeria from second slavery.”

So how do you want to save Nigeria?

I will become the president of Nigeria. Fela Anikulapo wanted to do it but they didn’t allow him. In 2015, I will be president and share the money among everybody and the poor.

I’m still asking, how do you plan to make a remarkable comeback, considering the fact that people don’t listen to Reggae anymore and we have the likes of D’banj and Psquare making waves?

Who born them? They are just copying American music. Can they sing like me? People still listen to Reggae. Reggae is still alive. All over the world, people love Reggae. When I performed for Oshiomole, Governor of Edo state, he came on stage and danced. Many people, young people came to watch me perform. They love my music. People still love Buju Banton, Alpha Blonde. If Lucky Dube was alive will you tell me people will not like his music? Reggae is forever. Do you know what Bob Marley’s family told me? They told me that they only respect Alpha Blonde, Lucky Dube and Majek Fashek in Africa.

So what are you working on now? When is an album coming out?

A-Plus Records have tried for me so much; MC Morris too. He was the one that brought me to Hajiya. My album will come out; we are working on it, but watch out for my new singles. I have many hit tracks coming. Watch out for “Return of the Legend.” It is my new single that will change everything. Chris Okoro produced it. Okoro produced “Jagajaga,” for Eedris Abdulkareem. He will produce my new song, “Return of the Legend.”

How did you meet Hajiya Dangaji who is now reviving your career?

MC Morris introduced me to Hajiya. She is a very wonderful woman. She put me in her house, but now she has gotten me a house and a jeep. She gives me money and buys me many things. We are very close now because she loves me. Many people think I’m dating her but that’s a lie. Even though I call her my girlfriend, her husband supports me too. All members of her family like me. Many people have tried for me; journalists too. That’s why I don’t joke with the press. One of you, Nduka Obaigbena, really tried for me. I can’t forget him. He allowed me perform with Snoop Dog, Jay-Z and Beyonce at his concert. He also gave me a lot of money.

What about your wife and children?

My wife is fine. She will soon come and join me because she has missed me. I have four children. They all love me and I love them. When we were in America, I used to babysit for my wife sometimes if she was busy. That’s because I love her and she loves me.

You used to introduce Tracy Chapman’s show some years back…

(cuts in) and Jimi Cleeve too.

Okay, tell us about it.

I love Tracy Chapman that’s why I go on her show. She looks like my boss, Hajiya. Tracy Chapman is a great musician too. I respect her, she respect me.

You are said to be very close to Rita Marley, Bob Marley’s widow.

Rita is my friend. When I had problem with Interscope Records, she encouraged me to move on. Her family gave me a deal on Tuff Gong Records that was when I released “The Rain Maker.” You see, the Marleys tried for me.

Have you settled your rift with Ras Kimono, your former band mate?

Ras Kimono cannot save Nigerian music. He now has a big stomach. He has eaten junks in America. A man with a big stomach like him cannot save Nigerian music. Who is Ras Kimono?

Finally, where do you get your inspiration?

My inspiration is from the streets and Jah. That’s why when I travelled to America, I went to live in the hood. I wanted to be close to my people. I studied music too; I know how music should be played.pls if you like/ don't like some things about this alway drop your comments

Sylva knows about Independence Day  bombing  – Witness

Sylva

A witness, who testified on behalf of the State Security Service (SSS) in the trial of one of the suspects, Edmund Ebiware, charged with complicity in the October 1, 2010, twin bombing in Abuja has pointed fingers at the immediate past governor of Bayelsa state, Timipre Sylva, saying that he had prior knowledge of the bombing.

The witness, who was simply called by the SSS for security implications, told a Federal High Court in Abuja that he informed Sylva that Henry Okah was planning to detonate bombs by October 1, 2010.

He also said he said he informed former Niger-Delta militant, Ebikabowei Victor Ben, aka Boyloaf, and Selekaye Victor Ben.

The witness, known as Mr. X, also confessed before the court that he and one Emmanuel Harrison participated in the Warri town bombing of March 15, 2010.

“I knew Edmund through Stanley Ogbakyri. I knew Okah too and we have each other’s phone numbers. And we do talk on phone. I knew with the looks of things Okah wanted to cause more problems after the amnesty programme because Okah felt the programme was no longer going the way it was originally designed to be.

“As at September 2010, I knew that there would be a bomb blast in Abuja. I received a phone call from Emma Harrisson that Henry Okah will bomb Abuja on October 1, 2010. I called Edmund and told him what I heard. He did not say anything.

“I reported what Harrison told me to Boyloaf and Victo Ben. I reported to Sylva, as well as Zion Amanda, who was then serving as the Secretary of Brass LGA. Amanda is very close to Sylva and I knew he was also going to tell Sylva,’’ Mr X said.

Justice Gabriel Kolawole adjourned till July 19, for the continuation of the trial.pls if you like/ don't like some things about this alway drop your comments

I see myself as a rookie – DJ Jimmy Jatt

DJ Jimmy Jatt: Spinning away

Jimi Amu a.k.a. DJ Jimmy Jatt is more than a Disc Jockey. He is not just a guy who stands in front of a turntable and mix different songs together. With a fashion line, syndicated TV show (Jimmy’s Jump Off), production company, and as a producer, DJ Jimmy Jatt is reputably Africa’s number one DJ and has been able to revolutionise the industry. DJ Jimmy, who has attained a legendary status in the entertainment industry, started the profession when no one was ready to dabble into it and some of his mates with whom he started with have long time quit. Little wonder he is enjoying all the acclaim today. Benjamin Onaghinor had a chat with him.

You are always coming out with new things of which the latest is your branded hat line.What inspires the things you do?

Music is what inspires the things I do and that’s why everything revolves around music. I don’t just see myself as a DJ. I see myself as an entrepreneur who tries to build businesses around my passion and drive for music.

Let’s talk about your hat line.

As everyone knows, my dressing is incomplete without a face cap or snap-back. It has over the years become part of my brand identity and it all started from way back when I used to be very shy, and I’m still shy. I wear the caps to cover up my face when I’m in public. I discovered that I keep and kept buying face caps. Whenever I travel, I always return with a load of new face caps. In fact I can’t count the number of face caps in my house; they should be enough to open a face cap store, seriously!

So, it just occurred to me that instead of buying other people’s face caps, I could just produce my own, just the way I prefer them. So you have the “D Triple J (DJJJ) Snapbacks designed for me by popular clothier, Marco Martinez. We recently launched it at Swe Bar, Lagos. Right now it’s the favourite of Nigerian artistes. The hats are so stylish and cool. It’s won in musical videos and on the streets. I’m glad that it is being well received. It’s worn by the likes of Tuface, Muna, MI and just everybody who is somebody in the industry.

You also dropped “Won Ko Mi Je” a song and video recently featuring Muna, Sauce Kid, Igho and fast-rising act Orezi. Tell us about it.

“Won Ko Mi Je” is just one of the songs from my forthcoming compilation album. When I released “The Definition” compilation album some years back and featured 50 artistes, many people were shocked at the success of the album, particularly “Stylee” a song from the album featuring Tuface Idibia. I also want to surprise my fans with this new one. Many people have been saying that is DJ Jimmy Jatt trying to be a musician, but I say no. I have not delved into music. I am a DJ first of all, will that qualify me to be a musician? And of course, I became a DJ because I was an aspiring artiste, I was going to make music., I was shopping around with my demo. But I developed the interest when I started DJ and I felt comfortable with DJing. But the album I did is more like a DJ hosting artistes, so you won’t hear me singing or rapping. Right now I’m working on a new compilation, so it is not something I do every time or every year, it is once in a long while. It is just something I love doing and I keep doing it as I can keep doing it.

How long has DJ Jimmy Jatt been around?

Well, I’ve been around for a while now. It should be up to three decades, you know.

You are considered the best DJ in Africa. How does it feel?

I feel the same. People may see me as the best DJ in Africa, but I don’t let all that get into me at all. I always tell people that I see myself as a rookie. I see myself as a rookie because I’m constantly learning new things and trying to get better. I appreciate the fact that I’m considered Africa’s best. That’s a great honour, but I never allow that get into my head.

I’m aware that many top Nigerian DJ’s, including DJ Waxxy who is about South-Africa’s biggest DJ, is your protégée. How true is this?

Well, you are right. It’s not only DJ Waxxy. We have DJ Yodee in Abuja and DJ Olly Gee in Kaduna. The truth is that I have my boys all over the world. Go to Europe, Asia, America, you will find DJs who have passed through me.

Is DJ Jimmy Jatt trying to be the Mafia of the Nigerian DJ world?

No, it’s just the grace of the Almighty God that I have the opportunity to tutor these guys. I have never stopped having people call me that they want to learn the profession and I do what I can to assist. When people see what you do and they like it, they will want to be part of it. Even though I started at a time when DJing was seen as a profession for never-do-wells, I’m shocked at the way people are now picking interest in the profession. You have graduates who call me that they want to be DJs. The interesting part is that some mothers even call me that they would like to enrol their daughters with me to learn DJ-ing.

Is Dj-ing something a female can do comfortably? It seems more like a man’s job if you consider the fact that DJs stay out late most times.

Why can’t a female do it? I have trained several female DJs already. There are professions that people do and they have to stay out late such as Nursing. Nurses do night shift and nursing is seen more as a female profession. So there is nothing wrong with a lady becoming a DJ.

Considering our kind of environment, won’t a lady DJ be considered wayward?

A profession doesn’t make a lady wayward. She gets wayward because she wants to be. Indecency is a matter of personal values and morals. A lady who wants to be wayward will still be wayward even if you put her in a bank to work. There are female bankers who sleep with their bosses right inside the office. These things are happening but you won’t know. But if it happened in the entertainment industry, people will talk about it.

So how can women be encouraged to become DJs?

A lot of women already want to become DJs, but they are not taking the steps because of what their people will say. I will just tell them to ignore whatever anyone says and follow their dreams. If they become successful those people who were against them initially will come back to embrace them and even apologise. It’s just like football; it was seen as a profession for men alone in the past, but many young ladies are now scrambling to join a football club.

You are also a family man…

Yes, I am married. I have been married for fifteen years with two kids. And just like Obama, I have two daughters very close to my heart. I do tell people that I have three wives. My two daughters and their mom are my three wives.

What makes you different from other DJs who just mix music to entertain people at parties?

First and foremost you must know that the world of DJ-ing is challenging, but to stand out you must be extraordinarily hard-working. Many DJs see DJ Jimmy Jatt performing at high profile gigs of multinationals such as Nigerian Breweries PLC, Guiness, and what have you and wish to do the same, but they are not ready to put in the kind of hard work I put into this job. A DJ must always keep him/herself updated with events and happenings in the profession. You need to update your equipment. I can boast that there is no industry stand equipment, no matter how expensive, that I have not upgraded to before. I have the same kind of equipment you will find on the sets of the biggest DJs in the world. DJs need to research and find out what the fans like. Those are some of the things I do that make me stand out. I’m very flexible and innovative. pls if you like/ don't like some things about this alway drop your comments