A pan-Ijaw group, under the auspices of Ijaw Nation Development Group, INDG, on Tuesday, warned political actors involved in the alleged impeachment moves of the Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, saying the plot can instigate crisis and jeopardize security and development in the state.

The warning comes a day after there was a reported arson attack and destruction of public assets at the Rivers State House of Assembly complex.

According to the INDG, aside from the threat to the peace and security of the state following the Sunday night attack, the people of the Niger Delta region are worried that Fubara, who has spent only five months in office has become a target of a political coup.

Speaking on behalf of the group, President of the INDG, Prof. Prosper Ayawei, called on the stakeholders, including the minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, to exercise restraint and settle any existing disagreement without throwing the state into chaos.

According to him, “Rivers State which had become a good example of where democracy works with exemplary infrastructural projects under former Gov. Wike should not be upturned into festering sore of violent clashes due to ego and greed.

“We are shocked that the political actors are out to destroy the achievements recorded in Rivers State. We, therefore, call for caution and amicable settlement of issues that might have ignited the crisis.

“We urge the stakeholders in Rivers State to stand firm behind Gov. Fubara against any anti-democratic forces and peaceful settlement.”

The group also call on the Speaker and leadership of the Rivers State House of Assembly to rescind their decision to suspend the Majority Leader, Hon. Edison Ehie, and notice of impeachment to Fubara, warning that the Ijaw nation is watching the developments in Rivers and would not resist to protect the mandate handed to the Governor, who is an Ijaw man.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/10/ijaw-group-warns-against-impeachment-of-rivers-governor-fubara/

The Former Majority leader of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Edison Ehie has emerged the new Speaker of the state Assembly.

Meanwhile, the Chief Judge of Rivers State, Simeon Amadi has been suspended.

Details soon.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/10/breaking-rivers-state-edison-ehie-emerges-new-speaker-justice-simeon-amadi-suspended/

The United Nations Refugee Agency has invited Afowiri Kizito Fondzenyuy also known as the Toghu Marathoner to speak at the 2023 Africa Forum on Displacement in Accra Ghana.

The event, which is designed to find private sector solutions for displacements and crises in Africa, will have Afowiri speak about his humanitarian strategy and the journey as the Toghu Marathoner. 

The Africa Forum on Displacements  is co-convened with the Amahoro Coalition and Inkomoko. It will also foster market-driven commitments that directly support displaced persons in Africa. 

It will be attended by  private sector leaders, government officials, philanthropists, refugees, and humanitarian organizations who will work towards a common goal of championing an African private sector-led vision that will effectively tackle the displacement crisis across the continent. 

Afowiri, who completed the Sydney Marathon last month, said that his marathon mileage is leading to better places. 

"I have run in sixteen marathons with five of them majors, but this is something different" 

Afowiri Kizito Fondzenyuy, The Toghu Marathoner running 2023 Sydney Marathon in Toghu

"It's a big honor for me and my North West Region of Cameroon origin means I am very familiar with the devastating effects of displacement crises” He said.

Having recently revealed that the Toghu outfit he wore for the Sydney Marathon was made by some internally displaced persons, Afowiri said that lending his voice at that big stage is something great for him. 

"I want to especially appreciate the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees and everyone who is putting the event together, Ghana I can't wait" 

“Knowing that my story can inspire a great deal of positive change will encourage me to keep running for the good causes and there is no stopping for me”

Having covered 673 km in 16 marathons, Afowiri Fondzenyuy is now known as the Toghu Marathoner for running marathons in Toghu, an outfit known to the People of North West Cameroon where he has earned the  Banso traditional title ‘Nformi Kile’ (General of Runners). 

In Toghu, Afowiri has run four marathons with two of them (London and Boston) majors. 

He has been running to raise money for the education of underprivileged children; research for autism; aides for ebola victims, construction of school blocks amongst others. 

Afowiri said he will be running in the Tokyo Marathon which will have him complete all six world marathon majors; run five marathons in Toghu and complete marathons in four continents - Europe, North America. 

He said that during the Tokyo Marathon, he will be raising money to have Internally Displaced Children go back to school and have good education.

He has also helped three out of the five who made his Sydney Marathon outfit go back to school, while the other two will follow after taking preliminary assessments because of their age. 

He said he will keep running as long as his legs can still carry him and the next stop after Tokyo would be Antarctica. 
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/10/afowiri-fondzenyuy-to-speak-in-united-nations-africa-forum-on-displacement-in-ghana/

The United Nations Refugee Agency has invited Afowiri Kizito Fondzenyuy also known as the Toghu Marathoner to speak at the 2023 Africa Forum on Displacement in Accra Ghana.

The event, which is designed to find private sector solutions for displacements and crises in Africa, will have Afowiri speak about his humanitarian strategy and the journey as the Toghu Marathoner. 

The Africa Forum on Displacements  is co-convened with the Amahoro Coalition and Inkomoko. It will also foster market-driven commitments that directly support displaced persons in Africa. 

It will be attended by  private sector leaders, government officials, philanthropists, refugees, and humanitarian organizations who will work towards a common goal of championing an African private sector-led vision that will effectively tackle the displacement crisis across the continent. 

Afowiri, who completed the Sydney Marathon last month, said that his marathon mileage is leading to better places. 

"I have run in sixteen marathons with five of them majors, but this is something different" 

Afowiri Kizito Fondzenyuy, The Toghu Marathoner running 2023 Sydney Marathon in Toghu

"It's a big honor for me and my North West Region of Cameroon origin means I am very familiar with the devastating effects of displacement crises” He said.

Having recently revealed that the Toghu outfit he wore for the Sydney Marathon was made by some internally displaced persons, Afowiri said that lending his voice at that big stage is something great for him. 

"I want to especially appreciate the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees and everyone who is putting the event together, Ghana I can't wait" 

“Knowing that my story can inspire a great deal of positive change will encourage me to keep running for the good causes and there is no stopping for me”

Having covered 673 km in 16 marathons, Afowiri Fondzenyuy is now known as the Toghu Marathoner for running marathons in Toghu, an outfit known to the People of North West Cameroon where he has earned the  Banso traditional title ‘Nformi Kile’ (General of Runners). 

In Toghu, Afowiri has run four marathons with two of them (London and Boston) majors. 

He has been running to raise money for the education of underprivileged children; research for autism; aides for ebola victims, construction of school blocks amongst others. 

Afowiri said he will be running in the Tokyo Marathon which will have him complete all six world marathon majors; run five marathons in Toghu and complete marathons in four continents - Europe, North America. 

He said that during the Tokyo Marathon, he will be raising money to have Internally Displaced Children go back to school and have good education.

He has also helped three out of the five who made his Sydney Marathon outfit go back to school, while the other two will follow after taking preliminary assessments because of their age. 

He said he will keep running as long as his legs can still carry him and the next stop after Tokyo would be Antarctica. 
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/10/afowiri-fondzenyuy-to-speak-in-united-nations-africa-forum-on-displacement-in-ghana/

The Rivers State House of Assembly has begun the process of impeaching the state governor, Siminialayi Fubara.

To this end, the state’s lawmakers served an impeachment notice on Fubara after removing the House Leader, Edison Ehie, who is believed to be on the Governor’s side.

Twenty-four out of 32 members of Rivers Assembly have signed the document for Fubara’s impeachment.

The decisions were taken at an emergency sitting by the lawmakers on Monday morning.

The unusual sitting took place between 7am and 9am on Monday.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/10/breaking-rivers-lawmakers-serve-impeachment-notice-on-gov-fubara/

Grammy-winning Nigerian singer, Temilade Openiyi, popularly known as Tems, has hinted at joining the movie industry in the future.

The Oscar-nominated diva said she would love to play single-mum roles in movies.

Tems, who was raised by a single mother in Lagos, disclosed this in a recent interview with BBC Capital Xtra London.

She said, “I’m ready to act in movies. Not ready right now but I’m already good at acting.

“The first character I would love to play is a single mum. It doesn’t need to be struggling. It could be like a fun single mum or a single mum that has mysteries. A gangster.”

DAILY POST recalls that Davido, Wizkid, and Mr Eazi have also spoken about joining the movie industry in the past though not as actors but as executives.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/10/id-love-to-play-single-mum-tems-hints-at-becoming-actress/

Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State on Monday downplayed any impeachment move against him.

Fubara insisted that he has committed no offence to warrant being impeached by the Rivers State House of Assembly.

He spoke while addressing his supporters at the Assembly Complex in Port Harcourt.

The governor assured the people of the state of getting the dividends of democracy.

“Let them come out and tell Rivers people the offence I have committed to warrant any impeachment.

“Let me assure the people of Rivers that I will continue to ensure that you get the dividends of democracy. At the appropriate time I will address the press,” he said.

There are reports of an impending impeachment process against Fubara following the removal of Edison Ehie as the House leader.

The crisis that ensued in the House left members fleeing for safety as tear gas was fired outside the Complex
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/10/rivers-i-committed-no-offence-cant-be-impeached-gov-fubara/

The Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) has blamed cable vandals for the power outage in some parts of the Federal Capital Territory.

AEDC disclosed this in a notice released on Friday.

DAILY POST learnt that Garki areas were most affected by the outage, which lasted for more than 24 hours.

Residents living around Niger Delta Power Holding Company office, Security Exchange Commission, Fraser Suite, Grand Square, and other areas are currently experiencing a power outage.

“The Management of AEDC wishes to update its esteemed customers in Garki 1 to 7 and environs that upon the restoration of 33Kv feeder H1 from Apo transmission station at 11:29 am today, a suspected cable fault was detected, which has caused the current outage to our valued customers in Areas 1 to 7,” AEDC stated.

Earlier, the company announced that there would be a nine-hour blackout in some districts on Saturday, October 28, due to a planned maintenance exercise by the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) on its 132/33 kV Kukwaba station.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/10/aedc-blames-vandals-for-power-outage-in-parts-of-abuja/

Big Brother Naija All Stars winner, Ilebaye Odiniya, has said she has never been in a romantic relationship.

The 22-year-old model had stated on the reality show that she was still a virgin.

In a recent interview with media personality, Chude Jideonwo, Ilebaye attributed her virginity to her upbringing.

She said her father was very disciplined.

The host: “Have you been in a relationship before, in the past?”

Ilebaye: “No.”

The host: “How can you be in this…a Gen Z. Somebody born after 1998, the Tiktok generation. What happened? Were your parents strict? What is going on?”

Ilebaye: “My dad is strict sha. But I don’t know.”
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/10/ive-never-been-in-romantic-relationship-ilebaye/

Victor Osimhen and Napoli are still miles apart as negotiations continue over a new contract.

Napoli have offered their talismanic forward a new two-year contract that will see him remain at the Estadio Diego Armando Maradona until 2027.

A new contract and release clause have been the major stumbling block so far.

As reported by Daniele Longo of Calciomercato.com, Osimhen would like his salary to be doubled in a new deal – from the current €4.5m net to around €9m net per season.

Osimhen’s camp are also pushing for a reasonable release clause.

Napoli’s offers have not come close to the €9m salary mark yet and they want to set the release clause to over €200m, creating a significant divide between the two parties.

The 24-year-old scored 31 goals in 39 appearances across all competitions for the Serie A champions last season.

The striker has scored six times for the Partenopei this season.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/10/serie-a-osimhen-napoli-wrestle-in-contract-talks/

The Headquarters of Sector 2 Joint Task Force (North East) Operation Hadin said its troops have neutralized six Boko Haram terrorists in separate operations conducted in two local government areas of Yobe State.

This was disclosed in a statement issued on Thursday by the Sector’s Acting Assistant Director Public Relations, Captain Muhammad Shehu.

According to the statement, the troops recorded the feats in continuation of the ongoing operation to rid the North East of terrorism, insurgency and sundry crimes.

“In recent operations, troops of 159 Battalion acting on actionable intelligence on 25th October 2023, staged an ambush against marauding insurgents who were harassing civilians and collecting levies from the locals.

“During the encounter the troops neutralized two terrorists and recovered weapons and items including two AK-47 rifles, two motorcycles and a mobile phone in a fierce fire fight, while others escaped in disarray with gun shot injuries at Jororo village in Geidam Local Government Area (LGA) of Yobe State,” the statement said.

In another operation, according to the statement, troops of 233 Battalion deployed at Babbangida on 26th October 2023, neutralized four Boko Haram insurgents and recovered arms following intelligence reports received on the presence of suspected terrorists at Bajingo and Kurnawa villages in Tarmuwa LGA of Yobe State.

“After the fire fight, the gallant troops also recovered two motorcycles among other sundry items,” the statement said.

DAILY POST gathered that there was jubilation in Geidam town, after troops of the 159 Battalion killed suspected Boko Haram members on Wednesday night.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/10/troops-kill-6-terrorists-recover-arms-in-yobe/

Ethiopia captain, Loza Abera, is full of excitement after getting the chance to meet Nigeria and Barcelona forward, Asisat Oshoala.

Abera got the opportunity during Ethiopia’s 2024 Olympic Games qualifier against the Super Falcons.

The midfielder, who had a picture with Oshoala before the game, took to the social media to express her joy.

“Unforgettable moment with a football icon. Met Asisat Oshoala, and it’s a dream come true!”, she wrote on her X handle.

“Her talent on and off the field is inspiring. She’s proof that with hard work, dedication, and passion, greatness is achievable. Thank you, Asisat, for being a role model!”

The Lucy held the Super Falcons to a 1-1 draw in the second round first leg clash at the Abebe Bekila Stadium, Addis Ababa.

Abera will have another opportunity to face Oshoala when both teams meet in the reverse fixture at the Moshood Abiola Stadium, Abuja, next week Tuesday.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/10/unforgettable-moment-ethiopia-captain-relishes-oshoala-meeting/

Ethiopia captain, Loza Abera, is full of excitement after getting the chance to meet Nigeria and Barcelona forward, Asisat Oshoala.

Abera got the opportunity during Ethiopia’s 2024 Olympic Games qualifier against the Super Falcons.

The midfielder, who had a picture with Oshoala before the game, took to the social media to express her joy.

“Unforgettable moment with a football icon. Met Asisat Oshoala, and it’s a dream come true!”, she wrote on her X handle.

“Her talent on and off the field is inspiring. She’s proof that with hard work, dedication, and passion, greatness is achievable. Thank you, Asisat, for being a role model!”

The Lucy held the Super Falcons to a 1-1 draw in the second round first leg clash at the Abebe Bekila Stadium, Addis Ababa.

Abera will have another opportunity to face Oshoala when both teams meet in the reverse fixture at the Moshood Abiola Stadium, Abuja, next week Tuesday.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/10/unforgettable-moment-ethiopia-captain-relishes-oshoala-meeting/

The Deputy President of the Senate, Sen. Barau Jibrin, has hailed the Supreme Court judgement which affirmed the victory of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in Feb. 25 presidential election.

The Supreme Court on Thursday dismissed the appeals by the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar, and that of the Labour Party (LP), Peter Obi, challenging Tinubu’s election victory.

Barau, in a statement on Thursday in Abuja by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ismail Mudashir, described the judgement as victory for democracy.

He urged the appellants to join hands with Tinubu to address the challenges facing the country.

Barau further urged them to accept the ruling of the apex court in good faith.

Barau commended the justices of the court for upholding the verdict of the electorate who voted for Tinubu during the presidential election.

“The legal battle is over with today’s judgement of the Supreme Court, affirming the victory of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the February 25, 2023, presidential election.

“Nigerians have won, democracy has won, and the country will be better for it.

“I commend the justices of the Supreme Court for upholding the verdict of the Nigerian electorate who voted for President Tinubu during the presidential election.

“It is now time for all to team up with the president to actualise his lofty programmes and policies for the development of our country as captured in the Renewed Hope Agenda,’’ he said.

He further reiterated the commitment of the National Assembly to support the executive and work for revival of the economy, as well as attainment of sustainable peace, unity and development of Nigeria.(NAN)
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/10/deputy-senate-president-hails-supreme-court-judgement/

A social critic, Mr Ibrahim Mohammed has waded into the worsening exchange rate crisis in the country, advising the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, to end any form of cash payment to government establishments.

DAILY POST reports that despite the current efforts of the government, Nigerians have seen the Naira crash further against the Dollar on a daily basis, exchanging for up to N1200/1$.

In an interview with DAILY POST on Thursday, Mohammed said he was concerned over the pains Nigerians were going through owing to the worsening state of the economy.

He said the CBN should go beyond the current policies in its search for a permanent solution to the forex crisis.

According to him, “In the past few days, we have seen the Naira value depreciate to such an embarrassing level.

“One will be forced to ask why such a free-fall of the Naira- is the Dollar now an official means of exchange in the country? The answer is No.

“However, I took out time recently to make some enquiries and a very worrisome discovery I made is that government officials, including top ranking military and paramilitary officers are the major customers of Bureau De Change operators.

“The reason is that the CBN is still supplying raw cash to some of the agencies, especially the security apparatus. So, some corrupt persons quickly rush to the BDC’s where they convert some of the cash to dollars for selfish motives.”

He urged President Bola Tinubu’s Government to direct the CBN to stop any form of cash payment to agencies.

“Whatever money they need should be sent to their designated account numbers. The excuse that money is paid cash to security men on the frontline of duty should not count here.

“The allowances should be paid into their account; they can always find a way of making withdrawal through POS operators.

“This is the major step to curb the unnecessary pressure on the Naira and save our economy. Mr President should, as a matter of urgency, take a bold step to end the corruption in the system,” he advised.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/10/forex-crisis-stop-disbursing-cash-to-government-agencies-social-critic-mohammed-urges-cbn/

Nigerian singer Alamezie Declan Chinonyerem popularly known as Nonifine has taken to social media to say that his new song 'Take You Home' is the best so far and will top global charts. 

Nonifine said that he is aware everyone will say that's what artists say, adding that beyond his great talent, he has delivered a wonderful song and no one can dispute that. 

He said that the love song is suitable for weddings and will become the best wedding song ever within a short time. 

Having won the Imo Got Talent Show about a decade ago, the singer said that a number of things have held him back, but he is free from those shackles. 

"I've been held back by a number of things. I have been preparing myself for a moment like this because a lot of persons believe I am not good at this" 

"I'm stepping out with the best song and there's no dispute on that. It is also the best wedding song out there and will give me my first step on global charts", he said. 

'Take you home' is Nonifine's debut single and he told OtownGist that he has been waiting for the moment his song will be out there for over a decade. 

He said that in this part of the world, only songs can make one a singer and he has been battling with choosing  the right content and timing, saying it is now or never. 

"There's no better time than now and a big shoutout to everyone who did not give up on me in this journey."

"It's been a ride, but we're here at this terminal and it is takeoff time for great things and time to keep blessing the world with great songs" 

'Take you home' features saxophonist KingSax and produced by legendary Wisdonbeat. 

Stream Here
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/10/meet-ninifine-the-nigerian-singer-who-believes-he-has-the-best-wedding-song-for-the-season/

Nigerian singer Alamezie Declan Chinonyerem popularly known as Nonifine has taken to social media to say that his new song 'Take You Home' is the best so far and will top global charts. 

Nonifine said that he is aware everyone will say that's what artists say, adding that beyond his great talent, he has delivered a wonderful song and no one can dispute that. 

He said that the love song is suitable for weddings and will become the best wedding song ever within a short time. 

Having won the Imo Got Talent Show about a decade ago, the singer said that a number of things have held him back, but he is free from those shackles. 

"I've been held back by a number of things. I have been preparing myself for a moment like this because a lot of persons believe I am not good at this" 

"I'm stepping out with the best song and there's no dispute on that. It is also the best wedding song out there and will give me my first step on global charts", he said. 

'Take you home' is Nonifine's debut single and he told OtownGist that he has been waiting for the moment his song will be out there for over a decade. 

He said that in this part of the world, only songs can make one a singer and he has been battling with choosing  the right content and timing, saying it is now or never. 

"There's no better time than now and a big shoutout to everyone who did not give up on me in this journey."

"It's been a ride, but we're here at this terminal and it is takeoff time for great things and time to keep blessing the world with great songs" 

'Take you home' features saxophonist KingSax and produced by legendary Wisdonbeat. 

Stream Here
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/10/meet-ninifine-the-nigerian-singer-who-believes-he-has-the-best-wedding-song-for-the-season/

FC Copenhagen manager, Jacob Neestrup has labelled striker Rasmus Hojlund as the ‘biggest strength’ in Manchester United’s squad.

Neestrup stated this ahead of Copenhagen’s UEFA Champions League clash with Man United on Tuesday night at Old Trafford.

When asked how he hopes to handle Hojlund, Neestrup told The United Stand: “The plan is we know that Hojlund is the biggest strength in the Manchester United squad, and what remains is that we have to be true to ourselves.

“I know we are not going to have the ball as much as we normally have in the Danish league, but when we have the ball we need to show that we are a proper football team. Manchester United are a team with high speed players, and players that are top, top, level in football.”

He added: “It is a massive game for all the players, for FC Copenhagen and for all Danish football but we are 95 minutes away from getting a good result as a team and for me as a manager.”

Hojlund started his professional career at Copenhagen before moving on to Sturm Graz, Atalanta and then Man United this year.

The 20-year-old is yet to score in the Premier League, but has netted three goals in the Champions League for Erik ten Hag’s side.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/10/ucl-copenhagen-coach-neestrup-identifies-man-utds-biggest-strength/

Popular skit maker and content creator, Mark Angel has recounted how he almost abandoned comedy due to challenges and discouraging comments from friends.

Speaking in a recent interview with Teju Babyface, Mark Angel recalled how a friend who was working with Shell Nigeria mocked him during his days as a struggling skit maker, questioning if it was skits he wanted to use to feed his family.

He stated that he started making skits in 2013 but gained the spotlight in 2015. He said even at that he didn’t achieve financial breakthrough until the next year.

Mark said, “I started skit-making in 2013 but hit the spotlight in 2015. In 2015, people started to know about me. I think my breakthrough was in 2016. That was when I decided to do comedy full-time.

“I was doing photography and videography part-time before then. So, I just decided to let that go. It took three years before I blew up in the skit-making business. There were so many times when I was discouraged. But the vision and belief I had were stronger than the discouragement.

“At a point, I started doubting myself because of what people were telling me. I had a friend called Alloy who nearly discouraged me from this life of skit-making.

“One day, I was coming back home from the location with my laptop and camera, and Alloy who was working with Shell Nigeria then stopped me to say, ‘Mark, you intend to provide for your family with skits? Really? This ‘foolishness’ is your plan to take care of family? Just wandering and trekking aimlessly with laptop? At least, pay for a ride on a commercial motorcycle!’

“As at that time, I was investing every money I was making into my craft. Because at that time the only way you could get ahead was to pay bloggers. I even put one of the bloggers on monthly payment. I paid the blogger N30,000 every month to promote my skits.

“Alloy who was discouraging me back then now works in my construction company. He works for me now. So everytime, I teased him about how he was mocking me during my days as a struggling skit maker.”
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/10/friend-who-mocked-me-for-doing-skits-now-works-for-me-skit-maker-mark-angel/

The Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, ATBU, has graduated 1,500 students from its World Bank Project focused on Sustainable Procurement, Environmental, and Social Standards Enhancement.

Speaking at the graduation ceremony, Professor Ibrahim Hassan Garba, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Coordinator of the Sustainable Procurement, Environmental, and Social Standards Center of Excellence (SPESSCE) at ATBU, explained that the programmes were introduced to combat corruption in procurement, as well as to train environmental and social standards experts.

According to him, the training is for a capacity building programme to address the skills gap in procurement, environmental and social standards.

He said ” The training spans through tracks –track A is run for five days where participants get their certificates, track B is where participants learn within 80 hours or three to four weeks while we have track D post-graduate diploma, track E is professional and academic masters.

“This initiative aims to enhance the skills and legal knowledge of individuals involved in procurement processes and even offers master classes for chief executives. Notably, students can attend classes virtually and collect their certificates in person at the University Campus.”

He also explained that the programme is designed to help the personnel in the procurement process to be more conversant with the existing laws.

“The procurement law holds the chief executive officer accountable but he doesn’t know the law. Now with this programme, we train procurement officers while we also organise a master class for chief executives.”
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/10/atbu-graduates-1500-students-on-procurement-others/

The Cross River State Government says it has expended over N10 million to medically rehabilitate ex-Olympian, Etim Ironbar, two months after taking him away from Lagos Streets, where he was squatting and doing menial tasks to survive.

The state government has also appointed Ironbar as the coach of the state weightlifting team.

The appointment letter, taking effect from 1st October 2023, was presented by the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Elvert Ayambem to Ironbar on Monday.

Commissioner for Sports Development, Agnes Atsu confirmed the development in her office.

“The appointment of the former olympian has come shortly after the state governor spent about two million naira medical bill to stabilize and return Ironbar’s fitness”, she said.

Ironbar has expressed happiness over the appointment as well as the medical rehabilitation.

He prayed God to grant the governor and his cabinet members good health for finding him worthy.

The ex-Olympian also pledged to serve the state through his wealth of knowledge in the sports sector.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/10/cross-river-writes-off-ex-olympian-ironbars-n2m-medical-bill-appoints-him-coach/

The European Union (EU) has announced the investment of an additional €5.4 million euros in building the capacity of teachers in the Northwest.

This is in line with its commitment of reducing the high number of out of school children in the region by improving access to quality education and empowering youths in the region.

EU Commissioner for International Partnerships, Jutta Urpilainen made the disclosure in Abuja at the official launch of the €4O million intervention programme on education and youth empowerment in North Western Nigeria through the Global Gateway initiative.

She disclosed that the additional fund was to ensure teachers get the necessary and upgraded skills and learning needed to nurture students armed with requisite knowledge to become an army of solutions to the many challenges confronting Nigeria and the continent in general.

The EU Commissioner said: “Actually, this component is complemented by a €5.4 million euros separate programme that we signed today, which is dedicated to teachers for aiming to build their resilience and capacity in challenging environments. We have to remember that there is no education without teachers and that’s why we also have to invest in teacher training.

“The third objective of our programme is really that it empowers youth with the skills they need, providing vocational education as promoting behavioral change campaigns to challenge harmful social norms and empower girls.

Urpilainen also added that the European Union was set to provide vocational education and training for Nigerian youths in order to equip them with the necessary skills required to excel in the labour market.

She said: “This ambitious programme launched today has been designed with Nigerian authorities to ensure ownership and an adequate response to the local needs. The EU is not only targeting the youth through this specific programme, it is also bringing the youth to the driving seat and this is why as the EU, we set up the Youth Sounding Board, also here in Nigeria, as well as in many countries to make sure that what we do is for the youth but also by the youth.

“We have to include young people in the decision making, we have to create spaces and structures where young people feel that they are visible and they watch this and this is precisely what the European Union is doing.”

Urpilainen, while noting that Nigeria was not only the economic powerhouse on the continent and the most populous country in Africa, but the country was also a strategic partner of the EU in the West region, described education as the most transformative sector with ability to change the fortunes of a country.

She explained that the programme would focus on lifting out of school children off the streets to get the required education, especially girls through various components aimed at achieving one objective; access to quality education and youth empowerment.

She said: “Education is the most transformative sector in which we can invest and it is the cornerstone for creating resilient societies and finding solutions to the biggest challenges of our time.

“So the EU investment on access, skills and quality education and youth empowerment in Northwestern Nigeria brings actually all these different components together. It will be deployed in the Northwest Nigeria.

“The programme which we are launching today supports access to education for out of school children with a specific focus on bringing and keeping girls in schools. It also includes direct assistance to families cash, cash, transfers, social protection, income generation, gifts and indirect assistance through agricultural practices. I think it’s important that we are able to provide access to education each and every child in Nigeria so no one is left behind.

“Another talk and overall objective of our programme is that it really promotes validated teaching and learning in targeted schools. So it will support child centred medical, sexual reproductive health racial gender equality training and support community based and state level capacities to deliver on education.”

Speaking on behalf of the Northwestern states, Governor of Jigawa State, Umar Namadi, while appreciating the EU for helping the region tackle the menace of out of school children, said they were committed to making education in their respective states a priority and have decided to invest heavily in the sector.

He said: “The Northwestern states have the highest population in the country, we are more disadvantaged when it comes to education so this support is coming at the right time.

“For each of us education is a priority and we have decided collectively and individually to invest in education and we are ready to change the narrative in next four years.

“This support has come at the right time and I assure you that this support will go a long way in helping us to revamp education in our various states. This intervention we will utilize in the best way possible and I assure you that the outcomes would be something commendable to improve our educational system and other aspects of social development.”

On his part, Minister of Education, Tahir Mamman, warned that any attempt to downplay education would cost the country a fortune in terms of welfare and security.

“If our youths are not properly catered for, trained and empowered, we are toying with the future of the country. Not catering for them will allow poverty to grow, insecurity to foster.”

“Our focus is shifting to basic education, out of school children, adolescent girls who needs to be trained and empowered.

“Our government is ready to commit 25% of the budget on education, all the President needs according to him is policies that will justify that budget and that is what we are working on.”
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/10/eu-to-invest-e5-4-million-euros-on-teachers-training-in-nigeria/

Marc Guiu scored the winner 33 seconds into his senior debut to give Barcelona a 1-0 home win over Athletic Bilbao.

The 17-year-old Spanish forward came on for fellow youngster Fermin Lopez in the 79th minute and struck almost immediately.

He scored his first league goal for Barcelona quicker than any other player in the club's history.

Victory took third-placed Barca back within a point of leaders Real Madrid, who they face next Saturday.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/10/17-year-old-marc-guiu-scores-as-barcelona-beat-athletic-bilbao/

Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the apex socio-cultural organization, on Sunday, expressed deep concern regarding the recent suspension and investigation of cement technology by the House of Representatives.

The House of Representatives took the action following a notice motion by Honourable Khadija Ibrahim from Yobe State, highlighting potential contradictions in the Minister of Works’ new policy on cement concrete pavement adoption.

However, Ohanaeze admitted that the House of Representatives must ensure transparency, accountability, and adherence to technical specifications for all government projects.

Okechukwu Isiguzoro, factional Secretary-General of Ohanaeze, said that the collective will and welfare of Nigerians should always take precedence over the contract terms of a few contractors who prioritize their selfish gains.

A statement by Isiguzoro reads: “The Minister of Works has consistently campaigned for the use of concrete technology in road pavement construction, citing its potential to boost the Nigerian economy and provide long-lasting durability with a life expectancy of over fifty years. President Tinubu and the Federal Executive Council (FEC) have endorsed Minister Dave Umahi’s Cement Technology due to its numerous economic benefits.

“It is important to note that the Minister has offered an alternative to contractors who insist on using asphalt. These contractors are required to swear under oath and sign a guarantee of 20 years’ durability for the roads constructed using asphalt. This measure ensures that contractors who opt for asphalt are held accountable for their choice, considering the long-term implications and potential economic waste.

“Ohanaeze Ndigbo firmly believes that the adoption of concrete technology in road construction aligns with the best interests of Nigeria and its citizens. The utilization of this innovative approach will not only enhance the country’s infrastructure but also generate a chain of economic benefits for Nigerians, especially during this challenging economic period.

“We, therefore, call on the leadership of the House of Representatives to carefully consider the long-term impact of their actions. It is crucial to prioritize the well-being and aspirations of Nigerians over the narrow interests of a few contractors who resist embracing more sustainable and economically advantageous practices.”
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/10/cement-tech-for-roads-ohanaeze-urges-reps-to-prioritise-national-interest-over-contract/

Marc Guiu scored the winner 33 seconds into his senior debut to give Barcelona a 1-0 home win over Athletic Bilbao.

The 17-year-old Spanish forward came on for fellow youngster Fermin Lopez in the 79th minute and struck almost immediately.

He scored his first league goal for Barcelona quicker than any other player in the club's history.

Victory took third-placed Barca back within a point of leaders Real Madrid, who they face next Saturday.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/10/17-year-old-marc-guiu-scores-as-barcelona-beat-athletic-bilbao/

Argentine World Cup-winning midfielder Papu Gomez has denied doping and blamed his positive test on accidentally ingesting his son's cough syrup.

On Friday, Gomez was given a two-year ban by Fifa after testing positive for a banned substance.

"I have never used, nor ever had any intention using doping methods," said Monza's Gomez on Instagram on Sunday.

Terbutaline was found in a sample taken from when Gomez played for Sevilla in October 2022.

The 35-year-old joined Italian club Monza in September and has made two appearances for them.

"It should be noted that therapeutic use of terbutaline is allowed for professional athletes and that in no way does it improve sporting performance," added Gomez, with both he and his club saying he involuntarily ingested the banned substance from his son's cough syrup.

He added that there could be legal action as he believes that his case was not handled in accordance with regulations.

Gomez made two appearances for Argentina as they won a third World Cup in Qatar last December.

The midfielder, who is best known for helping Monza's fellow Italian club Atalanta reach the Champions League in his seven-year spell in Bergamo, can appeal the decision.

Terbutaline is used to prevent bronchospasm in patients with asthma, bronchitis, emphysema and other lung diseases.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/10/argentina-midfielder-papu-gomez-blames-doping-ban-on-sons-cough-syrup/

The Kogi State Government on Sunday disclosed that there was an assassination attempt on the life of the governor of the state, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, a few kilometres away from Abuja, on his way to an official engagement from Lokoja.

In a statement issued on Sunday by Kingsley Femi Fanwo, Kogi State Commissioner for Information and Communications, the attack occurred at about 4 p.m. on Sunday.

The statement read as follows, “The attackers, who were dressed in military uniforms, waylaid the governor’s convoy and started shooting sporadically at his vehicle and other vehicles in the convoy. It took the swift intervention of the security personnel attached to the Governor to foil the satanic plans of the unknown soldiers.

“The attacks were at three different points, the last barricade being around Kwali Federal Capital Territory at about 4.20pm.

“The report of these strange attacks has been properly documented at security offices in the state and at the national level for prompt and thorough investigations to avert future occurrences.

We are not oblivious of the fact that certain elements are bent on painting Kogi unsafe ahead of the Governorship Poll slated for November 11, 2023. As an administration, we will spare nothing to ensure our citizens are not subjected to security threats by desperate politicians sponsoring violence and terrorism.

“We call on the citizens to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements in the domain to relevant security agencies. It is the responsibility of the government to ensure security and we want to assure you that the peace we have enjoyed as a state in the last eight years won’t be lost on the altar of violent politics.”

However, the Kogi State Police Command Public Relations Officer, SP William Ovye Aya, said the incident happened in Kwali and not Kogi State territory and so he cannot make any comment.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/10/unknown-soldiers-attack-kogi-gov-yahaya-bello-along-abuja-road/

The Defence Headquarters says troops of the armed forces have in one week rescued 53 kidnapped hostages, neutralised 37 and apprehended 124 terrorists across the country.

The Director, Defence Media Operations, Maj.-Gen. Edward Buba, made this known in a statement on Friday in Abuja.

Buba said those apprehended comprised 95 suspected terrorists and their collaborators, and 19 for oil theft in the Niger Delta region.

He said the troops also recovered 100 assorted weapons and 1,207 assorted ammunition

These, he said, included 45 AK-47 rifles, 11 locally fabricated AK-47 rifles, six pump action guns, 12 dane guns and two AK-47 rifles loaded with 34 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo.

Others, according to him, included two locally made guns, two locally fabricated pistols, two locally made revolvers, 925 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, 28 rounds of 9mm ammo, 157 live cartridges. and 23 magazines.

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Military neutralises 37 terrorists, apprehends 124 in one week

Published 

on October 20, 2023

By Francis Ugwu

The Defence Headquarters says troops of the armed forces have in one week rescued 53 kidnapped hostages, neutralised 37 and apprehended 124 terrorists across the country.

The Director, Defence Media Operations, Maj.-Gen. Edward Buba, made this known in a statement on Friday in Abuja.

Buba said those apprehended comprised 95 suspected terrorists and their collaborators, and 19 for oil theft in the Niger Delta region.

He said the troops also recovered 100 assorted weapons and 1,207 assorted ammunition

These, he said, included 45 AK-47 rifles, 11 locally fabricated AK-47 rifles, six pump action guns, 12 dane guns and two AK-47 rifles loaded with 34 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo.

Others, according to him, included two locally made guns, two locally fabricated pistols, two locally made revolvers, 925 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, 28 rounds of 9mm ammo, 157 live cartridges. and 23 magazines.

Buba added that 27 vehicles, 25 motorcycles and 38 mobile phones amongst others, were also recovered from the criminals.

He explained that in the North East, troops of Operation Hadin Kai neutralised 20 terrorists, arrested 57 and rescued 16 kidnapped hostages in different operations across the theatre.

He added that the troops also recovered 13 AK-47 rifles, five dane guns, four magazines, two fabricated guns, 203 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, eight motorcycles, four mobile phones, two bicycles, medical supplies, and assorted food items among others.

According to him, one Boko Haram terrorist, identified as Bulama Bukar, on Oct. 17, surrendered to troops in Gubio Local Government Area of Borno.

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Daily Post Nigeria

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Military neutralises 37 terrorists, apprehends 124 in one week

Published 

on October 20, 2023

By Francis Ugwu

The Defence Headquarters says troops of the armed forces have in one week rescued 53 kidnapped hostages, neutralised 37 and apprehended 124 terrorists across the country.

The Director, Defence Media Operations, Maj.-Gen. Edward Buba, made this known in a statement on Friday in Abuja.

Buba said those apprehended comprised 95 suspected terrorists and their collaborators, and 19 for oil theft in the Niger Delta region.

He said the troops also recovered 100 assorted weapons and 1,207 assorted ammunition

These, he said, included 45 AK-47 rifles, 11 locally fabricated AK-47 rifles, six pump action guns, 12 dane guns and two AK-47 rifles loaded with 34 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo.

Others, according to him, included two locally made guns, two locally fabricated pistols, two locally made revolvers, 925 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, 28 rounds of 9mm ammo, 157 live cartridges. and 23 magazines.

Buba added that 27 vehicles, 25 motorcycles and 38 mobile phones amongst others, were also recovered from the criminals.

He explained that in the North East, troops of Operation Hadin Kai neutralised 20 terrorists, arrested 57 and rescued 16 kidnapped hostages in different operations across the theatre.

He added that the troops also recovered 13 AK-47 rifles, five dane guns, four magazines, two fabricated guns, 203 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, eight motorcycles, four mobile phones, two bicycles, medical supplies, and assorted food items among others.

According to him, one Boko Haram terrorist, identified as Bulama Bukar, on Oct. 17, surrendered to troops in Gubio Local Government Area of Borno.

In the North Central, Buba said the troops of Operation Safe Haven (OPSH) neutralised three terrorists, arrested 53 and rescued 16 kidnapped hostages in different operations during the period.

He said the troops also recovered three AK47 rifles, two AK47 rifle magazines loaded with 34 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, two fabricated AK47 rifles, 34 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, 28 rounds of 9mm ammo and 37 live cartridges.

“Also recovered are 12 empty cartridges, four magazines, two motorcycles, two mobile phones, one Boafeng radio and charger, and the sum of N451,360,” the defence spokesman said.

He also said that troops of Operation Whirl Stroke neutralised two terrorists, arrested six and rescued 13 kidnapped hostages.

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Daily Post Nigeria

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Military neutralises 37 terrorists, apprehends 124 in one week

Published 

on October 20, 2023

By Francis Ugwu

The Defence Headquarters says troops of the armed forces have in one week rescued 53 kidnapped hostages, neutralised 37 and apprehended 124 terrorists across the country.

The Director, Defence Media Operations, Maj.-Gen. Edward Buba, made this known in a statement on Friday in Abuja.

Buba said those apprehended comprised 95 suspected terrorists and their collaborators, and 19 for oil theft in the Niger Delta region.

He said the troops also recovered 100 assorted weapons and 1,207 assorted ammunition

These, he said, included 45 AK-47 rifles, 11 locally fabricated AK-47 rifles, six pump action guns, 12 dane guns and two AK-47 rifles loaded with 34 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo.

Others, according to him, included two locally made guns, two locally fabricated pistols, two locally made revolvers, 925 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, 28 rounds of 9mm ammo, 157 live cartridges. and 23 magazines.

Buba added that 27 vehicles, 25 motorcycles and 38 mobile phones amongst others, were also recovered from the criminals.

He explained that in the North East, troops of Operation Hadin Kai neutralised 20 terrorists, arrested 57 and rescued 16 kidnapped hostages in different operations across the theatre.

He added that the troops also recovered 13 AK-47 rifles, five dane guns, four magazines, two fabricated guns, 203 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, eight motorcycles, four mobile phones, two bicycles, medical supplies, and assorted food items among others.

According to him, one Boko Haram terrorist, identified as Bulama Bukar, on Oct. 17, surrendered to troops in Gubio Local Government Area of Borno.

In the North Central, Buba said the troops of Operation Safe Haven (OPSH) neutralised three terrorists, arrested 53 and rescued 16 kidnapped hostages in different operations during the period.

He said the troops also recovered three AK47 rifles, two AK47 rifle magazines loaded with 34 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, two fabricated AK47 rifles, 34 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, 28 rounds of 9mm ammo and 37 live cartridges.

“Also recovered are 12 empty cartridges, four magazines, two motorcycles, two mobile phones, one Boafeng radio and charger, and the sum of N451,360,” the defence spokesman said.

He also said that troops of Operation Whirl Stroke neutralised two terrorists, arrested six and rescued 13 kidnapped hostages.

Buba further said that the troops recovered one dane gun, three mobile phones, eight bags of substances suspected to be cannabis and the sum of N114,500.

In the North West, the defence spokesman said troops of Operation Hadarin Daji neutralised 17 terrorists, arrested 10 and rescued 19 kidnapped hostages in raid operations carried out in Katsina, Sokoto and Zamfara States.

He added that the troops recovered four AK-47 rifles, several burnt AK-47 rifles, seven burnt magazines, 158 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo and 17 motorcycles.

According to him, troops of Operation Whirl Punch eliminated 10 terrorists and arrested 31 others, while 10 kidnapped hostages were rescued.

He disclosed that a terrorist collaborator in Chikun Local Goovernment Area of Kaduna State was also arrested by the troops.

Buba said nine locally made guns, 17 dane guns, three locally made pistols, seven magazines, 211 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, four cartridges, two motorcycles, one HH radio, five mobile phones, one amulet jacket, 20 arrows and N50,000 were recovered.

In the South-South, he said the troops of Operation Safe Haven, apprehended 19 perpetrators of oil theft and denied oil thieves of N3.3 billion during the period.

Buba said the troops also discovered and destroyed 56 illegal refining sites, 42 dugout pits, 82 boats, 143 storage tanks, 234 cooking ovens, 61 hoses, 17 drums, one pumping machine, two outboard engines and one vessel.

He added that the troops also recovered 6.01 million litres of stolen crude, 425,715 litres of illegally refined AGO, 38,100 litres of DPK and 4,500 litres of PMS within the period.

In the South East, Buba said the troops of Operation UDO KA neutralised four terrorists, arrested 21 criminals and rescued one kidnapped hostage in raids on IPOB/ESN hideouts.

He said the troops recovered six pump action guns, 48 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, 113 live cartridges, two motorcycles, one HH radio, four mobile phones, 10 generator sets, four refrigerators and 33,000 litres of illegal refined AGO among others.

“All recovered items, arrested suspects and rescued hostages were handed over to the relevant authority for further action.

“The military is in a good fight and is winning in this war. Our operations have killed or captured several terrorist and insurgent leaders as well as their facilitators and key associates.

“Accordingly, the insurgents and terrorist are in perpetual mourning as they constantly bury their dead and would continue to do so.

“Our communities across the country have risen to the occasion in exposing these elements and it is making a tremendous impact on operations as they no longer have a hiding place,” he said. (NAN)
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/10/military-neutralises-37-terrorists-apprehends-124-in-one-week/

Award winning media practitioner, Chinedu Hardy Nwadike has said that beyond building a strong brand, he also wants to build people. 

Chinedu who is the founder of OtownGist Media and Entertainment said that the concept of 'people' is often put behind money in the media sector and he will help change that. 

He said that with the purpose not set earlier, a lot of people are in the media just for the money and not for the offerings of the sector. 

"A decade in the sector has taught me a lot and I have seen people think the industry is their birthright, even when. they have not done enough to help it" 

"For me the industry has over a hundred doors wide open for people to come in"

"People who have good engagement on social media are now media experts and they pride themselves everywhere with the title without a single training and this is same with some graduates of Departments like Mass Communication, because they have no practical knowledge of the course they studied for four years", he said. 

Chinedu Hardy Nwadike said that the media in places like Imo State should be improved and people should be able to flow with the dynamism in the sector. 

He said that Universities should be able to identify media outfits in different genres to partner with so that students can have real experience while still in school. 

"The goal should not be to graduate more than 200 persons every year, the goal should be to send out professionals who will improve the media sector upon graduation" 

"Universities should creat work experience beyond the industrial training where students can work in various departments of the media in partner outfits, this is how we can build great institution in the sector" 

"Media entrepreneurs should think beyond building for money. We all should start building strong brands that will shape the future by grooming the next generation of media professionals", he said.

Chinedu Hardy Nwadike who is also an author is the president of Imo State Bloggers Association (ISBA) and has set his sight on grooming more than ten persons every year in the media sector. 
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/10/universities-should-partner-with-media-outfits-to-give-students-practical-experience-chinedu-hardy-nwadike/

Award winning media practitioner, Chinedu Hardy Nwadike has said that beyond building a strong brand, he also wants to build people. 

Chinedu who is the founder of OtownGist Media and Entertainment said that the concept of 'people' is often put behind money in the media sector and he will help change that. 

He said that with the purpose not set earlier, a lot of people are in the media just for the money and not for the offerings of the sector. 

"A decade in the sector has taught me a lot and I have seen people think the industry is their birthright, even when. they have not done enough to help it" 

"For me the industry has over a hundred doors wide open for people to come in"

"People who have good engagement on social media are now media experts and they pride themselves everywhere with the title without a single training and this is same with some graduates of Departments like Mass Communication, because they have no practical knowledge of the course they studied for four years", he said. 

Chinedu Hardy Nwadike said that the media in places like Imo State should be improved and people should be able to flow with the dynamism in the sector. 

He said that Universities should be able to identify media outfits in different genres to partner with so that students can have real experience while still in school. 

"The goal should not be to graduate more than 200 persons every year, the goal should be to send out professionals who will improve the media sector upon graduation" 

"Universities should creat work experience beyond the industrial training where students can work in various departments of the media in partner outfits, this is how we can build great institution in the sector" 

"Media entrepreneurs should think beyond building for money. We all should start building strong brands that will shape the future by grooming the next generation of media professionals", he said.

Chinedu Hardy Nwadike who is also an author is the president of Imo State Bloggers Association (ISBA) and has set his sight on grooming more than ten persons every year in the media sector. 
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/10/universities-should-partner-with-media-outfits-to-give-students-practical-experience-chinedu-hardy-nwadike/

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited has confirmed a minor fire outbreak occurred at its refinery in Warri Delta State.

The company, in a statement on Friday, said the outbreak was due to ongoing welding activity at the top of the cooling tower

The company said, “This afternoon, at about 15:02hrs, there was a minor fire incident at the cooling tower of Warri Refinery and Petrochemical Company Limited (WRPC).

“The fire which occurred as a result of ongoing welding activity at the top of the cooling tower will not affect the refinery rehabilitation project delivery schedule.

“NNPC Limited safety officers at the refinery acted immediately and put out the fire at about 15:30hrs; normalcy has since been restored.”

NNPC added that it will continue to adhere to the best safety standards in all its business operations.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/10/nnpc-confirms-fire-outbreak-at-warri-refinery/

French football's "bad boy" Karim Benzema is threatening to go to court after Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin accused him of having links with the Muslim Brotherhood.

The minister was reacting to remarks made by Benzema on X, formerly Twitter, in which he offered prayers to the people of Gaza as "victims again of unjust bombardments which spare neither women nor children".

Noting his failure to express similar sympathy for the estimated 1,400 Israeli victims of Hamas, Mr Darmanin said the former French striker was "well-known for his links with the Muslim Brotherhood".

"We are fighting the hydra that is the Muslim Brotherhood, because it creates an atmosphere of jihadism," he told right-wing news channel CNews.

The footballer, who now lives in Saudi Arabia and plays in the Saudi Pro League, authorised his Paris lawyer to issue a categorical denial - and to threaten legal action against Mr Darmanin for slander.

"Karim Benzema has never had the least relationship with this organisation," said Hugues Vigier.

"Praying for a civilian population living under bombs… is neither propaganda for Hamas, nor complicity in terrorism, nor an act of collaboration.

"It is natural compassion in the face of what many people qualify as war crimes… but which in no way detracts from the horror of the terrorist actions carried out on October 7," he said.

He said Karim Benzema was also considering legal action against right-wing deputy Nadine Morano, who described him as an "element of propaganda for Hamas".

Speaking subsequently on BFMTV, the interior minister refused to back down - saying he would only withdraw his comments if the footballer issued another tweet lamenting last Friday's Islamist murder of a schoolteacher in Arras.

"The Brotherhood is insidious. It uses all the means available in our society to get across its message of a strict Islam…. Not to see this is to be naive. Let's stop being naive!"

The Muslim Brotherhood is the 80-year-old movement, founded in Egypt, which has provided the rationale for many modern-day Islamist organisations, including Hamas.

Banned in Saudi Arabia, Egypt and many other Middle Eastern countries, it suffers no restriction in most of the EU, which does not regard it as terrorist.

Primarily an ideological movement, with no formal structure, its influence in Europe is mainly seen via front organisations which campaign for Islamic causes like the right of women to wear head-coverings.

Mr Darmanin's attack on Karim Benzema came under immediate fire from the political left, which accused the minister of trying to make political hay.

The 35-year-old former Real Madrid star has a difficult relationship with the French public. Though idolised by some, he has also won a reputation as a troublemaker.

In 2021 he was given a year's suspended prison sentence after being convicted of complicity to commit blackmail over a sex-video featuring French team-mate Mathieu Valbuena.

"Darmanin is campaigning for 2027," said political commentator Philippe Moreau Chevrolet, pointing to the next presidential election.

"He's looking for the most effective way to send out a message to right-wing voters."

The minister's entourage conceded there was "no judicial basis for proceeding against Benzema".

However in off-the-record briefings to the French press they said the footballer has "displayed a steady move towards a strict Islam characteristic of Brotherhood ideology". They cited his refusal to sing the national anthem during appearances for France, and his "proselytism" on social media.

Renowned lawyer Emmanuel Daoud told Le Figaro newspaper of his shock at Mr Darmanin's intervention.

"Is it tolerable for a man who is also minister of religion to say that expressing any spiritual compassion with the people of Gaza makes someone necessarily guilty of being close to the Muslim Brotherhood and Hamas?"

"We are very far from our basic laws."
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/10/french-minister-accuse-benzema-of-having-muslim-brotherhood-links/

Famous Nollywood actress, Iyabo Ojo, has disclosed that Omowunmi Aloba, the wife of the late singer, Ilerioluwa Oladimeji Aloba, aka Mohbad, has been interrogated by the Police.

DAILY POST reports that Mohbad died on 12 September 2023 in controversial circumstances.

As part of investigations into Mohbad’s death, the Lagos State Police Command has arrested several suspects, including the auxiliary nurse that treated him before his death, Feyisoya Ogedengbe, Sam Larry, Naira Marley, and Primeboy, in connection with the case.

However, Nigerians continue to demand the interrogation of the singer’s wife, insisting that she might possess important information that could help in the investigations.

Reacting to the calls for Omowunmi’s interrogation, Iyabo Ojo, in an Instagram post on Tuesday noted that Mohbad’s wife has been interrogated three times.

“Mohbad’s wife has been interrogated three times to the best of my knowledge, 2 out of the 3 times was the day you all saw Mohbad’s dad televised by the police in which they addressed the public on Mohbad’s case.

“Later that same day Mohbad’s dad, mum and wife was sent to Panti for interrogation and to write their statement, another day Mohbad’s wife was interrogated was the 21st of September, which is reason why Tonto Dike and Senator Ishaku Abbo met her absences.”

Also, speaking about the CCTV mounted at Mohbad’s residence, she stated that the camera was at no time connected for usage.

“Please note that the CCTV camera in Mohbad’s house was never fixed or connected, it has no BVR nor Hard Disk.”
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/10/police-have-interrogated-mohbads-wife-three-times-iyabo-ojo/

Popular musician, Tiwa Savage has postponed all performances including her first ever headline arena show in London.

The ‘Somebody’s Son’ crooner said she has been battling a virus for the past few weeks and was instructed to be “on strict vocal rest for the next few months”.

She disclosed this in a statement released via her social media pages recently.

The statement read, “To my dear Savage Soldiers, I’ve been fighting off a virus for the past few weeks and was today firmly instructed to be on strict vocal rest for the next few months.

“I will unfortunately have to postpone all performances including my first ever headline arena show in London.

“I’m heartbroken and devastated but I have to do this to save what’s left of my voice.

“I’m so sorry. I love you all and promise to be back performing once I’m fully healed.”
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/10/ive-been-battling-sickness-tiwa-savage-postpones-all-performances/

The Osun State Police Command on Tuesday arraigned an 18-year-old man, Musibahu Ganiyu, before a Magistrate Court sitting in Osogbo over alleged theft of an Infinix Smart 7 phone.

The Police Prosecutor, ASP Akintunde Jacob, told the court that the defendant committed the offense on October 14 , 2023, at Omo-Ade Oguntunde Street, Ilobu.

Jacob said the defendant conspired with one other person to steal an Infinix Smart 7 phone owned by one Oladapo Olubukola, after pretending to buy drugs from the complainant’s chemist shop.

He said that the defendant pretended to be sick when they approached the chemist before carting away her mobile phone.

“The police were able to tracked the mobile number before the defendant was arrested and brought to court,” the prosecutor said.

The prosecutor added that the offense contravened Section 390 of the Criminal Code Cap 34, Vol. 11 , Laws of Osun, 2002.

The defendant pleaded not guilty to the one-count charge of theft preferred against him and had no legal representative.

The Magistrate, A . Adeniran, granted the defendant bail in the sum of N300, 000 and two sureties in the like sum.

Adeniran said the sureties must reside within the court’s jurisdiction, with evidence of tax payment.

The case was adjourned to November 13 for hearing.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/10/police-arraign-teenager-over-phone-theft-in-osun/

The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, on Tuesday, October 17, requested an urgent closed-door meeting of the Senate during plenary after the Chief Whip of the Senate, Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume, left the chamber following a ruling that deemed him out of order.

Ndume (APC Borno South ), raised a point of order on alleged errors committed and not corrected by the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio.

The error referred to, by Ndume, was a motion moved by Senator Summaila Kawu (NNPP Kano South), for debate on the need for re-opening of Nigerian-Niger Border, without stating the title of his motion.

Ndume who rose through order 51 of the Senate standing rules, requested the Senate President to allow for correction of any error made or observed in plenary.

Ndume said, ” This is the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria guided by laws, rules and procedures. If in the course of proceedings at any session, errors are observed, they must be corrected before forging ahead with such proceeding.”

But Akpabio quickly intercepted him by saying having ruled on issues raised, it can not be revisited and consequently ruled Ndume out of order.

Senator Sunday Karimi (APC Kogi West), spiritedly attempted to sustain Ndume’s line of argument through another point of order but was also swiftly ruled out of order by Senate President, Godswill Akpabio.

In a troubleshooting effort, the Deputy President of the Senate, Jibrin Barau, quickly rose to read order 16, which requires a substantive motion to be moved by any Senator for correction or review of the earlier decision taken.

Sustaining Barau’s point of order by Akpabio, infuriated Ndume by raising another point of order (order 54) to seek correction of the perceived error.

But without being allowed to make a full presentation of his argument, the President of the Senate ruled him out of order again.

Angered by Akpabio’s decision, Ndume, packed his documents and furiously stormed out of the chamber.

Apparently, perplexed by the scenario, Senators hurriedly went into the closed-door session which is still on, as at the time of filling this report.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/10/breaking-senate-in-uproar-as-ndume-storms-out-of-chamber/

The National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) has reiterated that Polytechnic graduates should acquire the necessary knowledge and entrepreneurial skills and not only paper qualifications.

The Executive Secretary of the Board Prof. Idris Bugaje, stated this at the opening ceremony of a four-day workshop organised in collaboration with Danglo Management and Financial Limited, and sponsored by the Tertiary Education Trust Fund, TETFUND, in Bauchi.

According to him, “Graduates are expected to become self-employed by starting their small-scale businesses since it’s now apparently clear that the government cannot employ all graduates of higher institutions.”

DAILY POST reports that the workshop involved about 250 lecturers drawn from polytechnics, mono-technics and related technical institutions from Adamawa, Bauchi, Gombe, Maiduguri, Taraba and Yobe states.

The workshop was organised to strengthen and review entrepreneurship and skills development curricula for entrepreneurship educators in Nigerian polytechnics and similar institutions.

Bugaje said the workshop would provide an opportunity to rub minds and come up with a roadmap on how to strengthen entrepreneurship training in institutions of higher learning, particularly the polytechnics.

Represented by Iliyasu Mohammed, Bugaje further explained that the Federal Government had shown commitment to entrepreneurship education and since 2006, had directed all institutions of higher learning to commence entrepreneurship education as a course.

“The polytechnics commenced entrepreneurship as a course in their programmes from the 2007/2008 academic session.

“The NBTE also keyed into the Federal Government directives by ensuring that entrepreneurship education was inculcated in the curriculum of the polytechnic education.”

Bugaje reiterated that the Board also embarked on a massive review of its curricula in order to incorporate entrepreneurship training in all the academic programmes of polytechnics.

Also speaking, Dr Bello Bashir, the Special Assistant to the Executive Secretary, said the Board’s focus had changed from degree acquisition to skill proficiency and employment creation due to changing times and modern needs.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/10/why-graduates-should-embrace-entrepreneurial-skills-nbte/

President Bola Tinubu has launched the Renewed Hope Conditional Cash Transfer for 15 million households in a bid to cushion the effect of the fuel subsidy removal.

The launching was held at the Press Gallery of the State House in Abuja on Tuesday.

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume represented the President at the event.

Details shortly….
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/10/tinubu-launches-conditional-cash-transfer-for-15-million-households/

Ahead of today’s protest against the continued absence of Governor Rotimi Akeredolu of Ondo State, security operatives have sealed up the secretariat of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in the State.

The operatives of the Department of State Security, DSS, and the Nigeria Police Force sealed the secretariat very early on Monday morning to prevent the planned protest.

DAILY POST reports that Akeredolu, on September 7, returned to Nigeria after a three-month medical leave in Germany.

Since his return to Nigeria in September, Akeredolu has been at his private residence in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, from where he runs the affairs of Ondo State.

Confirming the development, Kennedy Peretei, the state Publicity Secretary of the PDP, explained that the party is known for its peaceful and developmental strides in the State.

“We can’t be accused of planning to create a crisis in the state.

“If APC knows where Akeredolu is, they should ask him to come out or resign honorably. It is now clear that the ruling party is afraid of their own shadows having failed to meet the expectations of the citizens,” Peretei said.

Recall that Alex Kalejaye, the Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress, APC, in a statement on Sunday, alleged that the ruling party had uncovered a plan by the PDP to instigate a crisis in the state to portray the party in bad light ahead of the 2025 gubernatorial election.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/10/akeredolu-security-operatives-seal-pdp-secretariat-ahead-of-protest-in-ondo/

Former Big Brother Naija All Stars contestant, Mercy Eke, has disclosed her desire and readiness to settle down.

Mercy, who made this known in an interviewwith a media personality, Hero Daniels, stated that she does not want to be a ‘Baby Mama’ just like some of her other celebrity colleagues.

When asked about how she is dealing with loneliness, Mercy said “I don’t want to be a baby mama. At this point, I’m ready to settle down and have a family.

” I’m ready to have my own kids. If I wanted to be a baby mama, I would have been one but no disrespect to ‘baby mamas’ but I would rather be married first because I’m from a Christian home.

“In as much as you want to be a boss lady, we just need that care, that somebody who just wakes up and checks on you. Someone who will be by your side and just do little things for you.

“Yeah, husband dey hungry me but I feel like I’m much more ready to have a little one,” she stated.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/10/i-dont-want-to-be-a-baby-mama-mercy-eke/

The Lagos State Government on Monday issued a 7-day ‘Vacation Order’ to motorists/commercial bus drivers operating on top of bridges across the State.

This was disclosed in a statement by Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Transportation, Sola Giwa.

Giwa explained that vehicles are causing serious obstructions around these bridges with great negative impacts on the integrity of the bridges and traffic.

According to him, commercial bus drivers have continued to defy government orders despite a series of warnings, adding that the present administration was expending huge resources for constructing standard bus terminals/garages for commercial activities in every part of Lagos.

The statement read in part, “Every motorist/commercial bus driver operating along ‘Apongbon’ and ‘Idumota’ (Cater) Bridges, ‘Elegbata:, ‘Ebute-Ero’ and ‘Ejalonibu’ must as a matter of urgency vacate these areas as LASTMA would commence strict enforcement operation immediately after the expiration of this ultimatum until zero tolerance is achieved across the state.”

Giwa, however, affirmed that after the expiration of the ultimatum, any vehicles that contravened would be immediately charged to the Lagos State Mobile Court for prosecution.

DAILY POST reports that the 7-day ‘Vacation Order’ takes immediate effect from today.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/10/lagos-govt-gives-7-day-vacation-order-to-motorists-commercial-bus-drivers-operating-on-bridges/

The German Chancellor, Olaf Scholz, will visit Israel on Tuesday, to show solidarity in the wake of the deadly attack by Hamas militants on October 7, German media reported on Monday.

It will be the first visit by a foreign head of state to Israel since the assault, which has sparked a war between Israel and Hamas.

Scholz has pledged full support for Israel, saying last week that Germany’s “only place” right now “is at Israel’s side”.

German broadcaster NTV, citing government sources, said Scholz’s visit could come as early as Tuesday.

The fate of German nationals kidnapped by Hamas during the attack 10 days ago is expected to be among the topics of discussion, it added.

It stated further that the trip could take place “in the coming days”.

The German government did not immediately confirm the visit.

German Foreign Minister, Annalena Baerbock, already travelled to Israel on Friday.

At a press conference with her Israeli counterpart in Jerusalem, Baerbock condemned Hamas for using residents as a “shield”.

Israel declared war on the Islamist group a day after waves of its fighters broke through the heavily fortified Israel-Gaza border on October 7, shooting, stabbing and burning to death more than 1,400 people, most of them civilians.

Israel responded with a relentless bombing campaign of the Gaza Strip that has flattened neighbourhoods and killed at least 2,670 people, mainly civilians.

More than one million people have fled their homes as Israel prepares a major ground operation in Gaza.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/10/german-chancellor-to-visit-israel-tuesday-reports/

President Bola Tinubu swore in three additional ministers into his 48-member cabinet at the Presidential Villa Abuja, on Monday.

The newly inaugurated ministers are Jamila Bio Ibrahim, Ayodele Olawande and Balarabe Lawal.

DAILY POST reports that they took the oath of office at 12:15 pm at the Council Chamber of the State House before the start of the Federal Executive Council meeting which Tinubu is presiding over.

This comes nearly two weeks after the Senate cleared the trio after screening on October 4, 2023.

On September 17, 2023, President Tinubu nominated Ibrahim and Olawande as Minister of Youth and Minister of State for Youth, respectively.

He also requested the Senate to screen Balarabe Lawal as minister from Kaduna.

Lawal, who served as secretary to the government under former Governor Nasir El-Rufai, replaced his principal in Tinubu’s cabinet as minister of environment.

Ibrahim, 37, hails from Kwara State. She is a medical doctor, politician and development expert and advocate of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

Before her recent appointment, she served as the National President of the APC Young Women Forum.

Olawande, 34, is a community development expert and youth leader within the All Progressives Congress.

Before his nomination, Olawande served as the special adviser on innovation to the former president, Muhammadu Buhari, office of the vice president, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo. He occupied the role from 2019 to 2023.

Before the meeting began, the Council observed a minute’s silence in honour of Mobolaji Ajose-Adeogun, who passed on July 1, 2023.

Ajose-Adeogun died at the age of 96. He was appointed the Minister of Federal Capital in 1976 by the Murtala Mohammed military regime and served in the position till 1979.

Monday’s meeting is the second since President Tinubu assumed office on May 29, 2023.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/10/fec-tinubu-swears-in-three-more-ministers/

Nigeria’s headline inflation soared by 0.90 per cent to 26.72 per cent in September from 25.80 per cent in August 2023.

The National Bureau of Statistics, NBS, disclosed this in its September Consumer Price Index report on Monday.

On a year-on-year basis, the headline inflation rate was 5.94 percentage points higher compared to the rate recorded in September 2022, which was 20.77 per cent.

This shows that the headline inflation rate (year-on-year basis) increased in September 2023 compared to the same month in the preceding year (i.e., September 2022).

Furthermore, on a month-on-month basis, the headline inflation rate in September 2023 was 2.10 per cent, 1.08 per cent lower than the rate recorded in August 2023 (3.18 per cent).

This means that in September 2023, the rate of increase in the average price level was less than what was recorded in August 2023.
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/10/breaking-nigerias-headline-inflation-rises-to-26-72-in-september/

Afowiri Kizito Fondzenyuy has revealed the special story behind his 2023 Sydney Marathon Toghu outfit.

Known as the Toghu Marathoner, Afowiri was running his fourth marathon in the outfit having previously worn it in the London Marathon, Athens Marathon and Boston Marathon.

He said when he wanted to make a new outfit, someone pointed him to some very creative Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in Bamenda, the North-West region of Cameroon.

Afowiri Kizito Fondzenyuy, The Toghu Marathoner running 2023 Sydney Marathon in Toghu

According to Afowiri, he had options of working with some big names in the Cameroonian fashion industry, but decided to give the IDPs a trial and they never disappointed him.

Minnet Fuo (20 years), Brenda Maya (23 years), Kushu Fabrice (19 years), Akenji Risk Jam (19 years), and Akem Obama (19 years), made the dress and according to Afowiri, there are 13 of them living under the same roof.

Saving IDPs with Toghu, The Bobe’s way

The 13 IDPs who hope to go back to school someday, are currently learning how to make the Toghu outfit in Bobe’s Toghu Tailoring Shop in Bamenda, Cameroon.

The shop owner Joseph Nawain and his wife Agnes Nawain are helping the IDPs settle in and find their feet again.

Joseph Nawain (2nd from left - standing), his wife Agnes Nawain (2nd from right - standing), with Minnet Fuo, Brenda Maya , Kushu Fabrice, Akenji Risk Jam, and Akem Obama. at Bobe’s Toghu Tailoring Shop in Bamenda Cameroon.

“The job they did shows what they could have achieved if there was peace in the region, They want to go back to school and hopefully go back to rebuild their torn down communities”

“Some of them watched their parents being killed and their houses burnt down. It is already sad and seeing them in this condition is not too good, but the fact that they still want to keep pushing, learn skills and contribute towards the development of the country is inspirational”

“Another hero here is Joseph Nawain who has taken them in, investing his time to make them resourceful. Following their story gives me strength and I know that as Toghu is becoming a global outfit, they will have their works worn around the world”, he said.

He has also completed all formalities for the 19 year old trio of Kushu Fabrice, Akenji Risk Jam, and Akem Obama to go back to school, adding that it will help them become better people in the society.

Minnet Fuo (20 years), Brenda Maya (23 years) who are much older, will require extra classes before they can be formally admitted to school and Afowiri said that the out of school IDPs have given him reasons to run in the next marathon.

Running with all the weights as Toghu Marathoner

Afowiri, is also known as ‘Nformi Kileh’ (General of Runners), a traditional title bestowed upon him by Fon (King) of Nso people, His Royal Highness Fon Sehm Mbinglo I. The Toghu outfit he ran in was made by the Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) which made it more special because of the story behind it.

“When I was running, I felt their presence with me; I felt their sufferings back home and it is quite unfortunate that a lot of people are not talking about these things”

“They have dreams just like every other person, but the violence in the region has disrupted it, but I am glad they could tell their stories through the patterns of my outfit”, he said,

20 year old Minnet Fuo from Fundong watched their house burnt down. She was attending Girls High School Fundong, but presently out of school and living away from her parents.

Toghu is the native wear of people from the North-West region of Cameroon, an outfit Afowiri Kizito Fondzenyuy has now exposed to millions of marathon audiences across Europe, America and Australia.

“We started with just a little thought, but look at where we are today. It is overwhelming and when I see how people have come to accept the Toghu Marathoner brand, it inspires me to do more”

“Most people don’t know that Toghu is not a light outfit, so when I run with all that weight, I feel the weight of my family, tribe, culture, country and continent that I am representing by running in the Toghu.

“I am running for children who are internally displaced and for those who cannot access quality education. The thought of their plight and struggles keeps pushing me to keep running in toghu and bring awareness and fundraise to help them overcome their struggles.

“When people stop for photos and when people are willing to support my cause, these things make me want to do more and I appreciate everyone who has been supporting me from day one”, Afowiri said.

Brenda Maya, 23, from Lebialem, South West Region of Cameroon. Their house was burnt down. She left Girls High School Mala and has been doing well at Bobe’s Tailoring Shop.

IDPs Give Toghu Marathoner reason to run in Tokyo

By March 2024, Afowiri Kizito Fondzenyuy will be running at the Tokyo Marathon in Japan, an addition to the 419 miles (673 km) he has already covered in 16 marathons.

In Tokyo, he will be running to raise money for out of school IDPs to go back and have good and quality education. He said that one of the goals someday will be to build a school that will offer fully funded primary and secondary school scholarships to underprivileged children in Cameroon and other parts of the world.

“This will be huge for me, but at first we have to get them back to the existing schools and see how can ensure they are getting quality education”

“Things are much harder because some of them do not know the whereabouts of their parents and they survive through the benevolence of relatives, neighbors and friends”, he said.

He looks to complete all six Marathon Majors when he runs the Tokyo marathon next year and that would also become his third major and fifth marathon in Toghu.

“The records are exciting, but above all inspiring. After Tokyo, the next would be Antarctica, and I will keep running as long as my legs can carry me”

“I’ll keep doing my best to help children get quality education irrespective of their background. As long as I wear Toghu to run marathons, it will keep speaking for who we are, our culture and all the things happening in the North West and South West Regions of Cameroon”, The Toghu Marathoner added.

Kushu Fabrice is 19 and from Njinikom. He has been at Bobe’s Tailoring Shop for 3 months. His parents separated during the war. He was out of school and will be going back to school thanks to the Toghu Marathoner

19 year old Akenji Risk Jam cannot locate his parents and siblings. He was in GOPAL Secondary School in Bello, but will be going back to school thanks to the Toghu Marathoner
https://www.otowngist.com/2023/10/inspirational-afowiri-reveals-how-cameroonian-internally-displaced-persons-idps-made-his-sydney-marathon-toghu-outfit/