• LET'S TALK ABOUT WATER- THE LITTLE WONDER WE OVERLOOK

    DID YOU KNOW?

    Water is life! Drinking at least 2 liters of water daily comes with amazing health benefits, including:

    Improved Digestion – Water aids in breaking down food, preventing constipation, and ensuring smooth digestion.

    Glowing Skin – It keeps the skin hydrated, reducing dryness, wrinkles, and acne, giving you a fresh, youthful glow.

    Boosted Energy Levels – Proper hydration prevents fatigue and keeps your body functioning optimally.

    Better Detoxification – Water flushes out toxins, keeping your kidneys and liver healthy.

    Weight Management – Drinking water before meals can help control appetite and aid in weight loss.

    Start your day with a glass of water and keep hydrating throughout! Your body will thank you.
    LET'S TALK ABOUT WATER- THE LITTLE WONDER WE OVERLOOK DID YOU KNOW? Water is life! Drinking at least 2 liters of water daily comes with amazing health benefits, including: 💧 Improved Digestion – Water aids in breaking down food, preventing constipation, and ensuring smooth digestion. 💧 Glowing Skin – It keeps the skin hydrated, reducing dryness, wrinkles, and acne, giving you a fresh, youthful glow. 💧 Boosted Energy Levels – Proper hydration prevents fatigue and keeps your body functioning optimally. 💧 Better Detoxification – Water flushes out toxins, keeping your kidneys and liver healthy. 💧 Weight Management – Drinking water before meals can help control appetite and aid in weight loss. Start your day with a glass of water and keep hydrating throughout! Your body will thank you. 💙💦
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  • DIRTY SCHOOL GIRL
    EPISODE 3.

    © ELVIS.

    When Maika and her crew learned that the prince had fallen in love with her, they assigned one of the girls to tell the prince that Jenifer used black magic to pass her exams. The allegations were justified by the fact that the charm was annihilated during the school party and she was never going to take first in class again.

    The prince was not convinced because his love for her was unbearable. So he told the girl that if Jenifer didn't come first, he was going to believe them and then try to forget about her.

    So Maika and her friends decided to work hard not only to prove their point but to get the attention of the Prince.

    Jenifer never knew they had disgraced her before the entire school just for a common rumor. She had no friend, and no one cared to alert her that the prince was in love with her and the other girls were trying to persuade him to hate her.

    The Prince wanted to ask her but thought she was going to renew the charm. She knew they hated her, when she found out that the bully girls had formed study groups, she knew they wanted to defy her position.

    The fury of what conspired at the campus social feast, made her determined to tripple her studies. She read and slept memorizing and got up early to read before doing her morning duties.

    She had understood the game and was wishing to receive a scholarship. The scholarships always came through the presidential degree. That was her hope and she was seriously working hard to maintain her position.

    Everyone knew she was going to fail because she had changed her old gown but it was still an oversized school uniform. Just because of her dirtiness, she drew the attention of everyone. Though it was hate, the only one the other girls admired got attracted to her. The very reason they were burning with rage. And so they had to prove her wrong through school results.

    She was ignorantly working hard and for the first time the entire crew of the bully girls was seriously bent on their books studying. Just because they wanted to impress the prince and steal him from Jennifer.

    She came from a poor background, that is why she never wanted to disappoint her single mum. She was the only hope she had. It was an academic war that was going on.

    One day when they were in class, a student stood right in front of the class and jabbered,

    "I will see how those who use 'Juju' to pass their exams and be first in this class will succeed this time."

    The class started Murmuring, while the prince wondered if black magic could make someone pass his exams. He had watched Jenifer and she was a very serious and devoted student. One thing about her was that she never gave the wrong answers even if the teacher asked a question to her by surprise.

    "We were taught that history is the study of past events. What is the use of history in our present events and future?"

    "As for me I don't know but if I had to respond to that I will say, from our past mistakes we can correct our future. Politicians use references from the past to lead the people,"

    "If you are able to think out of the box then it means you are a clever girl. What is the secret of your success?"

    "From the very first day school started learning and studying. I believe everyday is an examination day. Where i come from i don't have to fail," she justified and the prince was curious,

    "Why can't you fail?"

    "It is because it is not easy for my mother to afford paying my school fees. If I fail, it means I don't know what she went through before paying my school fees."

    That was the first day the prince spoke to her and the impression he had was different from the rumors that circulate about Jenifer.

    To be continued…

    Follow Akuma Chibueze for next episode
    DIRTY SCHOOL GIRL EPISODE 3. © ELVIS. When Maika and her crew learned that the prince had fallen in love with her, they assigned one of the girls to tell the prince that Jenifer used black magic to pass her exams. The allegations were justified by the fact that the charm was annihilated during the school party and she was never going to take first in class again. The prince was not convinced because his love for her was unbearable. So he told the girl that if Jenifer didn't come first, he was going to believe them and then try to forget about her. So Maika and her friends decided to work hard not only to prove their point but to get the attention of the Prince. Jenifer never knew they had disgraced her before the entire school just for a common rumor. She had no friend, and no one cared to alert her that the prince was in love with her and the other girls were trying to persuade him to hate her. The Prince wanted to ask her but thought she was going to renew the charm. She knew they hated her, when she found out that the bully girls had formed study groups, she knew they wanted to defy her position. The fury of what conspired at the campus social feast, made her determined to tripple her studies. She read and slept memorizing and got up early to read before doing her morning duties. She had understood the game and was wishing to receive a scholarship. The scholarships always came through the presidential degree. That was her hope and she was seriously working hard to maintain her position. Everyone knew she was going to fail because she had changed her old gown but it was still an oversized school uniform. Just because of her dirtiness, she drew the attention of everyone. Though it was hate, the only one the other girls admired got attracted to her. The very reason they were burning with rage. And so they had to prove her wrong through school results. She was ignorantly working hard and for the first time the entire crew of the bully girls was seriously bent on their books studying. Just because they wanted to impress the prince and steal him from Jennifer. She came from a poor background, that is why she never wanted to disappoint her single mum. She was the only hope she had. It was an academic war that was going on. One day when they were in class, a student stood right in front of the class and jabbered, "I will see how those who use 'Juju' to pass their exams and be first in this class will succeed this time." The class started Murmuring, while the prince wondered if black magic could make someone pass his exams. He had watched Jenifer and she was a very serious and devoted student. One thing about her was that she never gave the wrong answers even if the teacher asked a question to her by surprise. "We were taught that history is the study of past events. What is the use of history in our present events and future?" "As for me I don't know but if I had to respond to that I will say, from our past mistakes we can correct our future. Politicians use references from the past to lead the people," "If you are able to think out of the box then it means you are a clever girl. What is the secret of your success?" "From the very first day school started learning and studying. I believe everyday is an examination day. Where i come from i don't have to fail," she justified and the prince was curious, "Why can't you fail?" "It is because it is not easy for my mother to afford paying my school fees. If I fail, it means I don't know what she went through before paying my school fees." That was the first day the prince spoke to her and the impression he had was different from the rumors that circulate about Jenifer. To be continued… Follow 👉 Akuma Chibueze for next episode
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  • Breaking News: Tension in Lagos as Security Operatives Arrest Alabi-Macfoy Amid Mosque Leadership Crisis

    –Lagos Reporters

    The ongoing leadership tussle at the Lagos Central Mosque has taken a new twist following the alleged arrest of Alhaji Alabi-Macfoy by security operatives.

    A prominent member of the mosque and the Lagos Muslim community, who requested anonymity, disclosed this development on Wednesday. The source revealed that after his arrest, Alabi-Macfoy was allegedly taken to Santana Court in Tinubu, Lagos.

    The arrest has sparked outrage within the Muslim community, especially as the leadership dispute is already a subject of legal proceedings, with the next court hearing scheduled for May.

    Condemning the arrest, the mosque insider has called on Muslim brothers and sisters across Lagos to rise against what he described as "injustice" by gathering at the court to demand Alabi-Macfoy’s immediate release.

    Lagos Reporters recalls that the crisis at the Lagos Central Mosque has been brewing for some time, allegedly fueled by certain authorities in Lagos Island. In a previous development, security operatives stormed the mosque in an attempt to arrest key officials, including Alabi-Macfoy.

    With tensions escalating, all eyes are now on the authorities and the legal system to determine the next course of action.

    Lagos Reporters will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as events unfold.
    Breaking News: Tension in Lagos as Security Operatives Arrest Alabi-Macfoy Amid Mosque Leadership Crisis –Lagos Reporters The ongoing leadership tussle at the Lagos Central Mosque has taken a new twist following the alleged arrest of Alhaji Alabi-Macfoy by security operatives. A prominent member of the mosque and the Lagos Muslim community, who requested anonymity, disclosed this development on Wednesday. The source revealed that after his arrest, Alabi-Macfoy was allegedly taken to Santana Court in Tinubu, Lagos. The arrest has sparked outrage within the Muslim community, especially as the leadership dispute is already a subject of legal proceedings, with the next court hearing scheduled for May. Condemning the arrest, the mosque insider has called on Muslim brothers and sisters across Lagos to rise against what he described as "injustice" by gathering at the court to demand Alabi-Macfoy’s immediate release. Lagos Reporters recalls that the crisis at the Lagos Central Mosque has been brewing for some time, allegedly fueled by certain authorities in Lagos Island. In a previous development, security operatives stormed the mosque in an attempt to arrest key officials, including Alabi-Macfoy. With tensions escalating, all eyes are now on the authorities and the legal system to determine the next course of action. Lagos Reporters will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as events unfold.
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  • You may not control all the events that happen to you, but you can decide not to be reduced by them.
    You may not control all the events that happen to you, but you can decide not to be reduced by them.
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  • *PRAY THESE PRAYER POINTS AND ENDEAVOUR TO JOIN US TONIGHT FOR (DAY-16) OF 3-MONTHS COVENANT OF PROSPERITY BY CLICKING THE LINK BELOW:*

    https://web.facebook.com/events/1325637965429874/

    *TESTIMONY*

    I was attacked by strange forces when I went to my land to inspect the work they were doing for me. It was like a child's play and my leg got swollen and my mouth shifted one side as if I have stroke. When they were doing the test, they discovered that my BP was like that of a baby, but wondering how come my mouth shifted. A team of doctors keep coming to check on me and examine me. It was during the online marathon prayer that my own word came, and the man of God said, put your leg on the ground and begin to walk, that the attack must go back to sender. That night, I started walking after months, but to my greatest surprise, my elder brother developed the same sickness, and today he is in the grave. I don't know what he planned against me, but fire has returned it back to him. Somebody shout fire here fire there, somebody shout fire everywhere. I am Kelechi.

    *PRAYER POINTS*

    1. O God, my father, open up the heavens and let your fire fall!

    2. Any situation in my life that is not to the glory of God, scatter.

    3. Father, incubate me with fire of the Holy Spirit, in the name of Jesus.

    4. Any image of shame and disgrace covering my destiny, catch fire, in the name of Jesus.

    5. Anything God did not plant in my life, be uprooted by fire now.

    6. Today, any power changing my face, my image for evil, scatter now.

    7. O Lord, let your fire of destruction fall upon the troublers of my life.

    8. Every stubborn battle in my life, scatter now.

    9. Forces blocking my testimony, catch fire now.

    10. O God arise and let your fire consume every works of the enemy in my life and career, in the name of Jesus.

    11. Where is the Lord God of Elijah? Arise and let your fire set me free from every bondage of darkness

    *Evang IG Newman*
    *Contact: +2348032454273.*
    THIS IS *OUR YEAR OF MANIFESTATION.*
    *SHARE TO INVITE YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS*
    *PRAY THESE PRAYER POINTS AND ENDEAVOUR TO JOIN US TONIGHT FOR (DAY-16) OF 3-MONTHS COVENANT OF PROSPERITY BY CLICKING THE LINK BELOW:* https://web.facebook.com/events/1325637965429874/ *TESTIMONY* I was attacked by strange forces when I went to my land to inspect the work they were doing for me. It was like a child's play and my leg got swollen and my mouth shifted one side as if I have stroke. When they were doing the test, they discovered that my BP was like that of a baby, but wondering how come my mouth shifted. A team of doctors keep coming to check on me and examine me. It was during the online marathon prayer that my own word came, and the man of God said, put your leg on the ground and begin to walk, that the attack must go back to sender. That night, I started walking after months, but to my greatest surprise, my elder brother developed the same sickness, and today he is in the grave. I don't know what he planned against me, but fire has returned it back to him. Somebody shout fire here fire there, somebody shout fire everywhere. I am Kelechi. *PRAYER POINTS* 1. O God, my father, open up the heavens and let your fire fall! 2. Any situation in my life that is not to the glory of God, scatter. 3. Father, incubate me with fire of the Holy Spirit, in the name of Jesus. 4. Any image of shame and disgrace covering my destiny, catch fire, in the name of Jesus. 5. Anything God did not plant in my life, be uprooted by fire now. 6. Today, any power changing my face, my image for evil, scatter now. 7. O Lord, let your fire of destruction fall upon the troublers of my life. 8. Every stubborn battle in my life, scatter now. 9. Forces blocking my testimony, catch fire now. 10. O God arise and let your fire consume every works of the enemy in my life and career, in the name of Jesus. 11. Where is the Lord God of Elijah? Arise and let your fire set me free from every bondage of darkness *Evang IG Newman* *Contact: +2348032454273.* THIS IS *OUR YEAR OF MANIFESTATION.* *SHARE TO INVITE YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS*
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  • Natasha: This is not an attack on women in politics, says Senator Ned Nwoko

    EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW AND REJOINDER BY SENATOR (PRINCE) NED NWOKO ON THE SENATE VS. SENATOR NATASHA MATTER

    Defending the Senate’s Integrity Against Emotional Manipulation and Misrepresentation

    Distinguished Nigerians,

    It is important that we separate facts from sensationalism and resist the growing trend of exploiting gender sentiments to mask disorderly conduct within the Senate. The legislative chamber is not a battleground for personal grievances or emotional outbursts but a place of order, debate, and democratic principles.

    The recent outcry over the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has been twisted into a false narrative of victimization and suppression. Let it be clear: what was before the Senate was not her petition—something she herself has confirmed—but her conduct on the Senate floor, which violated the decorum expected of lawmakers.

    "Seat Reallocation Is a Standard Senate Practice"

    The issue started with a simple matter—seat reallocation. This is a normal and longstanding practice in the Senate. I have personally been moved three times.

    Here’s how it works:

    Whenever a senator leaves for any reason—whether due to death, defection, or other circumstances—there is an adjustment in the seating arrangement. This happens across both party lines, and it is not targeted at any individual. The idea is to ensure that seats are properly arranged based on seniority, party balance, and Senate rules.

    For instance, a ranking senator sits in the front row. If that senator leaves, a new member cannot just take that seat. Instead, everyone shifts accordingly. It is a process where multiple senators move to achieve the right balance.

    Everybody moves. Not just one person. The movement is done in a way that maintains the structure of the Senate. A fresher does not just sit where a senior senator was. The arrangement is reshuffled in a way that ensures order and respects seniority.

    This is a routine adjustment that happens all the time. It is not a new practice. It is not targeted at any one person. It is simply how the Senate works.

    "Senator Natasha Refused to Move and Caused a Disruption"

    On that day, Senator Natasha was asked to move to a new seat. Instead of complying, she refused. That, in itself, was already an issue because every other senator understands that seating changes happen regularly.

    But what followed was even more concerning. She became uncontrollable, raising her voice, shouting, "I am not scared of you!" We all saw the video. That display was completely uncalled for.

    At that moment, it was no longer about a seat—it was about discipline, order, and respect for the institution. If every senator decided to resist a simple procedural adjustment in that manner, the Senate would be ungovernable.

    "The Senate Followed Due Process"

    After that incident, the Senate Committee on Ethics invited her for a disciplinary hearing. That is the proper procedure. The committee heard from those who were present that day, and all agreed that she had acted in an unruly manner. The report that was submitted was clear—her conduct on the floor was unacceptable, and she should be suspended.

    I personally reached out to her during this process. I sent her messages because, as a lawyer, I know that before any judgment is passed, a person must be given an opportunity to state their case.

    I asked her:
    "Are you prepared to apologize so that I can speak on your behalf? Ask that you be given the opportunity to apologize."

    She responded that she did no wrong.

    That didn’t stop me. I told her directly: You are wrong. I watched the video. I saw what happened. The report before us was not about any sexual harassment claim—it was strictly about her disorderly conduct.

    Misogyny Is Not the Issue—Disorderly Conduct Is

    Some voices are trying to frame this as an attack on women in politics. That is a manipulation of the truth. Nigeria has many strong female leaders who have made their mark through discipline, strategic engagement, and respect for institutional processes. The Senate is not and has never been against women.

    However, no lawmaker—man or woman—is above the rules of the chamber. The issue here is not gender; it is the expectation that all Senators must conduct themselves with decorum and respect for the institution they serve. The rules of engagement apply equally to all members, and when a Senator repeatedly flouts those rules, there must be consequences.

    "The Allegations of Sexual Harassment Were Never Before the Senate"

    One thing that must be made clear is that the Senate did not deliberate on any sexual harassment allegations. That matter is before the courts, and the courts will decide.

    It is highly unlikely that she will win such a case, because the alleged incident supposedly happened over a year ago. She had multiple opportunities to report it to the Senate, the police, or any authority, yet she did not.

    Even after this alleged incident, she traveled multiple times with the Senate President for international events, well-documented online. She was in the same spaces as him, attended meetings with him, and was often with her husband during these trips.

    To now come forward and narrow these allegations to a particular day, a particular time—when her husband was within range, when other people were present, when the Senate President’s wife was in the family house—raises serious questions. It is highly unlikely that such discussions would take place in such a setting.

    The Senate Must Uphold Discipline and Order

    The Senate is not a chaotic town hall where emotions dictate decisions. There are clear procedures for addressing grievances, presenting petitions, and debating national issues. Senator Natasha was not sanctioned for submitting a petition—she was sanctioned for her behavior on the Senate floor.

    If we allow sentiments to override discipline, the Senate will become ungovernable. This is not about suppressing opposition or silencing voices; it is about maintaining the dignity of the institution and ensuring that every member adheres to the same standards of conduct.

    "Exploiting Feminine Sentiments for Political Gain"

    It is disingenuous to claim that this is a case of gender-based suppression when the facts point to a different reality. The real danger is allowing the rules to be bent simply because a particular lawmaker chooses to play the victim card when confronted with the consequences of their actions.

    Leadership comes with responsibility. Every Senator, regardless of gender, must conduct themselves in a manner that upholds the integrity of the Red Chamber. If we start excusing unruly behavior because of gender, then we are setting a dangerous precedent where rules become optional based on emotional appeal.

    "The Role of Her Husband in This Escalation"

    I was also deeply disappointed by the reaction of her husband. I had expected him to find a way to de-escalate the matter, to prevent it from becoming a full-blown crisis.

    When he sent me his statement and reaction, I told him exactly how I felt. If my wife were in such a situation, I would do everything possible to resolve the issue privately, to manage it in a way that does not cause further division.

    It is even more surprising because her husband has been friends with the Senate President long before he married Natasha. This could have been settled without this level of unnecessary public drama.

    Conclusion: The Senate Must Stand Firm

    The Senate must not bow to emotional blackmail or social media outrage fueled by half-truths. Nigeria’s democracy thrives when its institutions are strong, disciplined, and governed by rules—not when they are manipulated to serve personal or partisan interests.

    We must ensure that the principles of accountability, order, and respect remain the guiding forces of our legislative process. This is not about silencing anyone; it is about ensuring that the Senate remains a place of reasoned debate, not theatrical disruptions.

    Senator (Prince) Ned Munir Nwoko
    Senator, Delta North
    Natasha: This is not an attack on women in politics, says Senator Ned Nwoko EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW AND REJOINDER BY SENATOR (PRINCE) NED NWOKO ON THE SENATE VS. SENATOR NATASHA MATTER Defending the Senate’s Integrity Against Emotional Manipulation and Misrepresentation Distinguished Nigerians, It is important that we separate facts from sensationalism and resist the growing trend of exploiting gender sentiments to mask disorderly conduct within the Senate. The legislative chamber is not a battleground for personal grievances or emotional outbursts but a place of order, debate, and democratic principles. The recent outcry over the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has been twisted into a false narrative of victimization and suppression. Let it be clear: what was before the Senate was not her petition—something she herself has confirmed—but her conduct on the Senate floor, which violated the decorum expected of lawmakers. "Seat Reallocation Is a Standard Senate Practice" The issue started with a simple matter—seat reallocation. This is a normal and longstanding practice in the Senate. I have personally been moved three times. Here’s how it works: Whenever a senator leaves for any reason—whether due to death, defection, or other circumstances—there is an adjustment in the seating arrangement. This happens across both party lines, and it is not targeted at any individual. The idea is to ensure that seats are properly arranged based on seniority, party balance, and Senate rules. For instance, a ranking senator sits in the front row. If that senator leaves, a new member cannot just take that seat. Instead, everyone shifts accordingly. It is a process where multiple senators move to achieve the right balance. Everybody moves. Not just one person. The movement is done in a way that maintains the structure of the Senate. A fresher does not just sit where a senior senator was. The arrangement is reshuffled in a way that ensures order and respects seniority. This is a routine adjustment that happens all the time. It is not a new practice. It is not targeted at any one person. It is simply how the Senate works. "Senator Natasha Refused to Move and Caused a Disruption" On that day, Senator Natasha was asked to move to a new seat. Instead of complying, she refused. That, in itself, was already an issue because every other senator understands that seating changes happen regularly. But what followed was even more concerning. She became uncontrollable, raising her voice, shouting, "I am not scared of you!" We all saw the video. That display was completely uncalled for. At that moment, it was no longer about a seat—it was about discipline, order, and respect for the institution. If every senator decided to resist a simple procedural adjustment in that manner, the Senate would be ungovernable. "The Senate Followed Due Process" After that incident, the Senate Committee on Ethics invited her for a disciplinary hearing. That is the proper procedure. The committee heard from those who were present that day, and all agreed that she had acted in an unruly manner. The report that was submitted was clear—her conduct on the floor was unacceptable, and she should be suspended. I personally reached out to her during this process. I sent her messages because, as a lawyer, I know that before any judgment is passed, a person must be given an opportunity to state their case. I asked her: "Are you prepared to apologize so that I can speak on your behalf? Ask that you be given the opportunity to apologize." She responded that she did no wrong. That didn’t stop me. I told her directly: You are wrong. I watched the video. I saw what happened. The report before us was not about any sexual harassment claim—it was strictly about her disorderly conduct. Misogyny Is Not the Issue—Disorderly Conduct Is Some voices are trying to frame this as an attack on women in politics. That is a manipulation of the truth. Nigeria has many strong female leaders who have made their mark through discipline, strategic engagement, and respect for institutional processes. The Senate is not and has never been against women. However, no lawmaker—man or woman—is above the rules of the chamber. The issue here is not gender; it is the expectation that all Senators must conduct themselves with decorum and respect for the institution they serve. The rules of engagement apply equally to all members, and when a Senator repeatedly flouts those rules, there must be consequences. "The Allegations of Sexual Harassment Were Never Before the Senate" One thing that must be made clear is that the Senate did not deliberate on any sexual harassment allegations. That matter is before the courts, and the courts will decide. It is highly unlikely that she will win such a case, because the alleged incident supposedly happened over a year ago. She had multiple opportunities to report it to the Senate, the police, or any authority, yet she did not. Even after this alleged incident, she traveled multiple times with the Senate President for international events, well-documented online. She was in the same spaces as him, attended meetings with him, and was often with her husband during these trips. To now come forward and narrow these allegations to a particular day, a particular time—when her husband was within range, when other people were present, when the Senate President’s wife was in the family house—raises serious questions. It is highly unlikely that such discussions would take place in such a setting. The Senate Must Uphold Discipline and Order The Senate is not a chaotic town hall where emotions dictate decisions. There are clear procedures for addressing grievances, presenting petitions, and debating national issues. Senator Natasha was not sanctioned for submitting a petition—she was sanctioned for her behavior on the Senate floor. If we allow sentiments to override discipline, the Senate will become ungovernable. This is not about suppressing opposition or silencing voices; it is about maintaining the dignity of the institution and ensuring that every member adheres to the same standards of conduct. "Exploiting Feminine Sentiments for Political Gain" It is disingenuous to claim that this is a case of gender-based suppression when the facts point to a different reality. The real danger is allowing the rules to be bent simply because a particular lawmaker chooses to play the victim card when confronted with the consequences of their actions. Leadership comes with responsibility. Every Senator, regardless of gender, must conduct themselves in a manner that upholds the integrity of the Red Chamber. If we start excusing unruly behavior because of gender, then we are setting a dangerous precedent where rules become optional based on emotional appeal. "The Role of Her Husband in This Escalation" I was also deeply disappointed by the reaction of her husband. I had expected him to find a way to de-escalate the matter, to prevent it from becoming a full-blown crisis. When he sent me his statement and reaction, I told him exactly how I felt. If my wife were in such a situation, I would do everything possible to resolve the issue privately, to manage it in a way that does not cause further division. It is even more surprising because her husband has been friends with the Senate President long before he married Natasha. This could have been settled without this level of unnecessary public drama. Conclusion: The Senate Must Stand Firm The Senate must not bow to emotional blackmail or social media outrage fueled by half-truths. Nigeria’s democracy thrives when its institutions are strong, disciplined, and governed by rules—not when they are manipulated to serve personal or partisan interests. We must ensure that the principles of accountability, order, and respect remain the guiding forces of our legislative process. This is not about silencing anyone; it is about ensuring that the Senate remains a place of reasoned debate, not theatrical disruptions. Senator (Prince) Ned Munir Nwoko Senator, Delta North
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  • SECRETS TO HAVING A STRONG RELATIONSHIP

    Everyone dreams of having the happiest marriage. You want someone who’s going to love you no matter what, you want a person to have fun with and most importantly, you want someone you can share a happy, fulfilling life with.
    If you desire a loving and lasting relationship with your spouse, both of you need to adopt the following habits below:

    1. INVEST IN YOUR MARRIAGE
    Reading books on marriage, conflict resolution, and communication techniques will help your marriage. The more you invest in your marriage, the more valuable it becomes. Most importantly, Treat your spouse better than you treat anyone else.

    2. COMMUNICATION
    Believe it or not, communication is the key to a happy marriage. Never stop communicating. Stay on the same page. Make sure your spouse always knows how you feel. Keeping open communication is arguably the best thing you can do for your marriage.
    Make sure that you always communicate clearly about what you want and expect. Remember that good communication is what makes a marriage successful.

    3. DON'T GIVE UP:
    On your wedding day, you make promises to love your sweetheart forever through the good and bad times. But sometimes the bad outweighs the good by a lot, and marriages end up falling apart. But there are things you can do to make your happy marriage last forever. Be committed to make your marriage work. Don't think the grass is always greener on the other side. Most people who leave their marriages for someone else find the same problems in the new relationship, and many regret not having worked things out in their first marriage. Any married person will tell you that marriages wax and wane. There are good times, bad times, and so-so times. A marriage is viable if the good outweighs the bad, even by a little bit. The more you appreciate the good and try to let the bad roll off, the easier it will get, and the more fondness and connection you will feel towards your spouse.

    4. LEARN TO LISTEN
    Speaking less and listening more is important if you want to build a strong relationship with your partner. It’s important you always pay close attention to what your partner has to say. Ask your partner how his/her day went and listen to him/her talk about their day.

    5. KEEP YOUR PRIVATE LIFE PRIVATE
    When you put your relationship on social media, you invite the public to your relationship. Keep your private matters private. It’s a relationship between you and your partner and not between you, your partner and the public. You can share your fun dates with your partner or some nice photos together on your Facebook or Instagram app but make sure you draw the line where necessary.

    6. KNOW WHEN TO LET THINGS SLIDE AND LEARN HOW TO MANAGE CONFLICTS
    Finding ways to reduce the frequency of conflict in your relationship by letting go of the little things will help you build a strong relationship with your partner. Arguments are normal in a relationship but you should make sure you never insult your partner during an argument. Always listen to what your partner has to say during an argument.

    7. COMMITMENT:
    Commitment is very important if you desire to have a strong relationship with your partner. You have to decide to stick with your partner and make the relationship work irrespective of the flaws your partner might have. Couples who renew their commitments every day, in words and deed, are on their way to having a strong relationship.

    8. MAKE TIME TO DATE
    Spending quality time with your partner is important if you desire to build a strong relationship. Nothing substitutes for time together. No matter how busy you are, always create time to go out on dates with your partner.

    9. BE TOTALLY TRANSPARENT
    Partners in strong relationships have no secrets. If you desire to build a strong relationship with your partner, you have to be completely transparent with your partner. You don’t need privacy in your relationship if you want a strong relationship.

    10. TRY NEW THINGS TOGETHER
    Whether it be something as simple as watching a movie neither of you has seen, or something as extreme as skydiving, trying new things together as a couple is important if you want to have a strong relationship. Trying new things together keeps the excitement and passion going in your relationship.

    11. COMPLIMENT YOUR PARTNER
    You shouldn’t save the compliments for big events alone, make complimenting your partner a regular occurrence. You make your partner feel special and noticed when you compliment him/her and this helps build a strong relationship.

    12. NEVER PUT EACH OTHER DOWN IN PUBLIC
    How you treat your partner in front of others matter if you desire to build a strong relationship with your partner. Never ever put each other down or say anything negative about your partner in public. Only say supportive and kind things to each other in public and save disagreements for when you both are alone.

    13. NEVER GET TIRED OF SAYING “I LOVE YOU”
    These three little words “I love you” are important if you want to build a strong relationship with your partner. No matter how long or hard your day is, always end your day by telling your partner how much you love him/her. End your day with the words “I love you”.

    14. LEARN HOW TO COMPROMISE
    You have to understand the value of compromise if you want to build a strong relationship. You may not always want to do what your partner wants but if it’s important to your partner, do it with a smile on your face.
    Lastly.....

    15. PRAY AND PLAY TOGETHER:
    Couples that pray and play together stay together. Hand in hand each morning before you face the vicissitude of life, read a devotional, and pray together.
    Take turns to pray for your marriage, your challenges &your children. If its your turn to pray, lift your spouse's burdens to The Lord and thank God for the wonderful spouse He gave you.
    Never miss an opportunity to celebrate life's milestones together. Celebrate anniversaries and birthdays. Make it simple and sweet. Play and laugh together. Be merry with the person you married and watch your love for each other grow from strength to strength.
    You will not fail in marriage in Jesus Name.

    #southafrica
    #relationship
    #relax
    #Lovestory
    #photochallenge
    #beauty
    #beautychallenge
    #BallonDor2024
    SECRETS TO HAVING A STRONG RELATIONSHIP Everyone dreams of having the happiest marriage. You want someone who’s going to love you no matter what, you want a person to have fun with and most importantly, you want someone you can share a happy, fulfilling life with. If you desire a loving and lasting relationship with your spouse, both of you need to adopt the following habits below: 1. INVEST IN YOUR MARRIAGE Reading books on marriage, conflict resolution, and communication techniques will help your marriage. The more you invest in your marriage, the more valuable it becomes. Most importantly, Treat your spouse better than you treat anyone else. 2. COMMUNICATION Believe it or not, communication is the key to a happy marriage. Never stop communicating. Stay on the same page. Make sure your spouse always knows how you feel. Keeping open communication is arguably the best thing you can do for your marriage. Make sure that you always communicate clearly about what you want and expect. Remember that good communication is what makes a marriage successful. 3. DON'T GIVE UP: On your wedding day, you make promises to love your sweetheart forever through the good and bad times. But sometimes the bad outweighs the good by a lot, and marriages end up falling apart. But there are things you can do to make your happy marriage last forever. Be committed to make your marriage work. Don't think the grass is always greener on the other side. Most people who leave their marriages for someone else find the same problems in the new relationship, and many regret not having worked things out in their first marriage. Any married person will tell you that marriages wax and wane. There are good times, bad times, and so-so times. A marriage is viable if the good outweighs the bad, even by a little bit. The more you appreciate the good and try to let the bad roll off, the easier it will get, and the more fondness and connection you will feel towards your spouse. 4. LEARN TO LISTEN Speaking less and listening more is important if you want to build a strong relationship with your partner. It’s important you always pay close attention to what your partner has to say. Ask your partner how his/her day went and listen to him/her talk about their day. 5. KEEP YOUR PRIVATE LIFE PRIVATE When you put your relationship on social media, you invite the public to your relationship. Keep your private matters private. It’s a relationship between you and your partner and not between you, your partner and the public. You can share your fun dates with your partner or some nice photos together on your Facebook or Instagram app but make sure you draw the line where necessary. 6. KNOW WHEN TO LET THINGS SLIDE AND LEARN HOW TO MANAGE CONFLICTS Finding ways to reduce the frequency of conflict in your relationship by letting go of the little things will help you build a strong relationship with your partner. Arguments are normal in a relationship but you should make sure you never insult your partner during an argument. Always listen to what your partner has to say during an argument. 7. COMMITMENT: Commitment is very important if you desire to have a strong relationship with your partner. You have to decide to stick with your partner and make the relationship work irrespective of the flaws your partner might have. Couples who renew their commitments every day, in words and deed, are on their way to having a strong relationship. 8. MAKE TIME TO DATE Spending quality time with your partner is important if you desire to build a strong relationship. Nothing substitutes for time together. No matter how busy you are, always create time to go out on dates with your partner. 9. BE TOTALLY TRANSPARENT Partners in strong relationships have no secrets. If you desire to build a strong relationship with your partner, you have to be completely transparent with your partner. You don’t need privacy in your relationship if you want a strong relationship. 10. TRY NEW THINGS TOGETHER Whether it be something as simple as watching a movie neither of you has seen, or something as extreme as skydiving, trying new things together as a couple is important if you want to have a strong relationship. Trying new things together keeps the excitement and passion going in your relationship. 11. COMPLIMENT YOUR PARTNER You shouldn’t save the compliments for big events alone, make complimenting your partner a regular occurrence. You make your partner feel special and noticed when you compliment him/her and this helps build a strong relationship. 12. NEVER PUT EACH OTHER DOWN IN PUBLIC How you treat your partner in front of others matter if you desire to build a strong relationship with your partner. Never ever put each other down or say anything negative about your partner in public. Only say supportive and kind things to each other in public and save disagreements for when you both are alone. 13. NEVER GET TIRED OF SAYING “I LOVE YOU” These three little words “I love you” are important if you want to build a strong relationship with your partner. No matter how long or hard your day is, always end your day by telling your partner how much you love him/her. End your day with the words “I love you”. 14. LEARN HOW TO COMPROMISE You have to understand the value of compromise if you want to build a strong relationship. You may not always want to do what your partner wants but if it’s important to your partner, do it with a smile on your face. Lastly..... 15. PRAY AND PLAY TOGETHER: Couples that pray and play together stay together. Hand in hand each morning before you face the vicissitude of life, read a devotional, and pray together. Take turns to pray for your marriage, your challenges &your children. If its your turn to pray, lift your spouse's burdens to The Lord and thank God for the wonderful spouse He gave you. Never miss an opportunity to celebrate life's milestones together. Celebrate anniversaries and birthdays. Make it simple and sweet. Play and laugh together. Be merry with the person you married and watch your love for each other grow from strength to strength. You will not fail in marriage in Jesus Name. #southafrica #relationship #relax #Lovestory #photochallenge #beauty #beautychallenge #BallonDor2024
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  • Blending Pineapple with ginger is 5 times more effective than cough syrup. This juice also prevents cold, flu and boost the immune system.
    #copied
    Blending Pineapple with ginger is 5 times more effective than cough syrup. This juice also prevents cold, flu and boost the immune system. #copied
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  • HEALTH AND WELLNESS

    LET'S TALK ABOUT WATER

    Water is the foundation of life and plays a vital role in keeping our bodies functioning optimally. It aids in digestion, regulates body temperature, flushes out toxins, and keeps our skin hydrated. Every cell, tissue, and organ in the body relies on water to work efficiently. Staying hydrated improves brain function, boosts energy levels, and enhances metabolism, making it essential for overall well-being.

    Drinking enough water daily supports kidney health, prevents dehydration, and keeps joints lubricated, reducing the risk of cramps and fatigue. Whether you're walking, working, or resting, proper hydration is key to maintaining balance and vitality.
    Make water a priority in your wellness routine for a healthier, more energetic life.
    HEALTH AND WELLNESS LET'S TALK ABOUT WATER Water is the foundation of life and plays a vital role in keeping our bodies functioning optimally. It aids in digestion, regulates body temperature, flushes out toxins, and keeps our skin hydrated. Every cell, tissue, and organ in the body relies on water to work efficiently. Staying hydrated improves brain function, boosts energy levels, and enhances metabolism, making it essential for overall well-being. Drinking enough water daily supports kidney health, prevents dehydration, and keeps joints lubricated, reducing the risk of cramps and fatigue. Whether you're walking, working, or resting, proper hydration is key to maintaining balance and vitality. Make water a priority in your wellness routine for a healthier, more energetic life.
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  • #makisberthacakesnevents
    #makisberthacakesnevents
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  • *"Strong Minds Discuss Ideas,
    *Average Minds Discuss Events,
    *Weak Minds Discuss People".!!!
    *"Strong Minds Discuss Ideas, *Average Minds Discuss Events, *Weak Minds Discuss People".!!!
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    0 Comments 0 Shares 92 Views 0 Reviews
  • IBB Reveals how Murtala Muhammed became the head of state and how he told Obasanjo and Danjuma that they would not be beholden to anyone as head of state, as well as the story about the day of his assassination in his Book

    IBB, in his book, also revealed that the early days of the Muhammed administration witnessed an unprecedented wave of retirements in Nigeria’s public service that had never been seen before.

    He wrote: “One of the accusations against General Gowon (which, in retrospect, seemed unfair) was that he ran the business of governance ‘like a one-man show’! So, we, the ‘younger’ senior officers who had played a role in the coup, decided that the new post-Gowon government’s leadership must be overtly collective. So, while we concluded that Brigadier Murtala Muhammed should be the head of state, our preference was for him to operate only as first among equals, especially in his dealings with the two other prominent senior officers, Brigadiers Olusegun Obasanjo and Theophilus Danjuma. But we knew Muhammed enough to know he would need to be persuaded to accept such an arrangement.à

    “So, while the rest of us ‘younger’ senior officers waited in an adjacent room, Colonel Wushishi, Lieutenant-Colonels Joe Garba, Abdullahi Mohammed and Yar’Adua took Brigadiers Muhammed, Obasanjo and Danjuma to another room to negotiate the terms of our proposal for a triumvirate-type leadership where Muhammed will be required to share power with Obasanjo and Danjuma. I couldn’t describe the mood since we were absent from that meeting. But we were close enough to pick up Muhammed’s thundering voice, rejecting such proposals outrightly. As far as I remember, the meeting lasted for hours past midnight. Finally, Murtala Muhammed agreed to be head of state while insisting that he would not be beholden to anyone as head of state!

    In a prompt style that typified his leadership, he quickly announced several retirements the next day, just as he made new appointments. All officers above the rank of Major-General or senior to any new government member were compulsorily retired. Those retired included such persons as the Chief of Staff, Supreme Headquarters, Vice-Admiral Joseph Wey; the Deputy Chief of Staff, Supreme Headquarters, Major-General Hassan Katsina; the Chief of Staff (Army), Major-General David Ejoor; the Chief of Naval Staff, Rear Admiral Nelson Soroh; the Chief of Air Staff, Brigadier Emmanuel Ikwue; the Inspector-General of Police, Alhaji Kam Salem; the Deputy Inspector-General of Police, T. A. Fagbola and Major-General Adeyinka Adebayo.

    “These retirements were followed simultaneously with new appointments. While the Commissioner for Works and Housing from the old SMC, Brigadier Olusegun Obasanjo, replaced Vice- Admiral Wey as the new Chief of Staff, Supreme Headquarters, Brigadier Theophilus Danjuma replaced Major-General Ejoor as the Chief of Staff (Army). Danjuma would change the designation of that position upon resumption of office to ‘Chief of Army Staff,’ which has remained the designation ever since. The only surviving senior army officer from Gowon’s SMC, Brigadier Iliya Bisalla, also the NDA’s Commandant, became Minister of Defence. Alhaji Mohammed Dikko Yusuf became the Inspector-General of Police. Colonel John Yisa-Doko took over from Brigadier Emmanuel Ikwue as Chief of Air Staff, while Commodore Michael Adelanwa replaced Rear Admiral Nelson Soroh as Chief of Naval Staff.

    “The early days of the Muhammed administration witnessed an unprecedented wave of retirements in Nigeria’s public service that had never been seen before. After the twelve military governors from the Gowon era were compulsorily retired, the government ordered a probe of their conduct in office.

    “Ten of the twelve governors were found guilty of illegal enrichment and ‘dismissed with ignominy.’ Brigadiers Oluwole Rotimi and Mobolaji Johnson were the only two not found to have enriched themselves illegally.

    “Some civilian members of the Gowon cabinet were also found to have enriched themselves illegally. Apart from Alhaji Shehu Shagari, the Finance Commissioner and Alhaji Ali Monguno, who was in charge of Mines and Power, the government found all others guilty of improper enrichment and were made to forfeit illegally acquired assets. Similarly, in a broad wave of retirements that affected thousands of civil servants, many top civil servants were also caught in the web of asset forfeiture of ill-gotten assets. Even the revered Federal Public Service Commission Chairman, Alhaji Sule Katagum, was not spared. He was also dismissed.

    “Looking back now and writing as a member of the SMC, I realise we probably overdid the retirement exercise. The idea of retiring corrupt and incompetent public officers was appropriate. But because we failed to provide a platform for challenging retirements in the surge of events, some civil servants may have been victims of an unfair witch-hunt. Goaded on by a seemingly over-exuberant mass media, we didn’t look deeply at the implications of the mass purge, mainly as it affected the civil service. I am not sure our federal civil service fully recovered from that purge.

    The General Murtala Assassination.

    “FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 1976, started like any typical day for me. I lived at No 19 Crescent, Ikoyi, Lagos, although my troops were stationed at the cantonment in Ikeja. However, because the Committee on Army Reorganisation, which I headed, was furiously at work during that period, I reported first in the morning at Defence Headquarters, which was close by, before heading out to Ikeja.

    “My regular route to army headquarters was through the faster Osborne Road. But for some reason, on this fateful morning, as my driver opted at about 8.45 a.m. to turn right through our regular route, I instinctively told him to turn left and go through the more open Kingsway Road to avoid possible traffic congestion. That decision may have saved my life because, unknown to me, Major Ibrahim Rabo’s men, led by Lieutenant Peter Cigari, had been detailed to ambush and kill me on the Osborne Road route. At that time, I was oblivious to the fact that the so-called Dimka coup, which led to the assassination of General Murtala Muhammed, his ADC, Lieutenant Akintunde Akinsehinwa and his driver, Sergeant Adamu Michika, had been operational for over an hour. Muhammed’s orderly, who was also in the car, Staff Sergeant Michael Otuwe, narrowly survived the onslaught.

    “The plotters’ strategy was to lay several ambushes for different government members along their routes to work that morning. As emerged from subsequent investigations, Major Ibrahim Rabo, Captain Malaki Parwang and Lieutenant William Seri, led by Lt-Col. Bukar Suka Dimka, laid in wait for Muhammed’s entourage. In a well-coordinated plan, Dimka assigned each assassin specific roles and functions. In aiming his shots at Muhammed, Lieutenant Seri was said to be so ruthless that he emptied more than one magazine of ammunition into the car carrying the head of state.

    “The scene was in disarray when I arrived at the army headquarters, still oblivious to what had happened. But I soon found out that a coup attempt was ongoing and that it needed to be put down. I’ll never forget my exchange with General Akinrinade as I sauntered into the top floor of the building: ‘Ibrahim, where the hell have you been?’ the General inquired. ‘We’ve been looking for you. You must go and see T. Y. (Danjuma) immediately,’ he continued.

    “Convinced I was being sought after because of our ongoing meeting on the army’s reorganisation, I looked at my wristwatch and told the General I was on time since it wasn’t yet 9 a.m.! ‘Who’s talking of a meeting?’ the General thundered back. ‘Haven’t you heard what happened, that the head of state has just been assassinated and that Major Dimka has made a broadcast claiming to have taken over?’

    “I remember exactly how I felt that morning when General Akinrinade broke the news to me. I was utterly shattered and devastated. And I remember muttering to myself as I walked towards General Danjuma’s office: ‘Dimka, organising a coup? That’s not a serious character. How could he contemplate such a thing? Dimka? That’s impossible.’

    “When I met with Danjuma, his instructions were unambiguous: ‘Ibrahim, go to the Radio House and flush Dimka out of that place immediately.’ The first thing I did was to get in touch with my troops stationed at the Ikeja cantonment. But I also knew I had to be careful with so much uncertainty in the air since I wasn’t sure where they stood regarding their loyalty. After I failed to establish contact with any of my most trusted lieutenants by telephone, I quickly hopped on a motorcycle ridden by a young corporal, whose name I forget now. On our way to Ikeja, I stopped at Lt-Col. Hamzat Abdullahi’s residence at Ilupeju, close to the Ikeja cantonment. Once I confirmed that it was safe to enter the cantonment, I borrowed Hamzat’s car and entered the premises through a rear entrance. Once inside the cantonment, I established contact with Lt-Col. Chris Ugokwe. With the assistance of Lt-Cols. Ugokwe and Joshua Dogonyaro, I mobilised loyal troops, weapons and vehicles before heading back to the Nigerian Broadcasting Corporation (NBC) Radio House at Ikoyi.

    “When we got to Radio House in an armoured column, we noticed that Dimka’s men surrounded the place, primarily young officers who were a part of the plot, including his ADC, 2nd Lt Samuel Garba. As I got down from my armoured vehicle, unarmed, and approached the building, Dimka’s ADC, Garba, attempted to stop me. By now, Dimka had spotted me from the storey building and screamed: ‘Ibrahim, I’m going to shoot you’! I shouted back: ‘Well, that’s okay. If you shoot me, you know my family. You’ll take care of them. They’ll become your responsibility. I have no problem. It would be nice to die in the hands of a friend.’ After a pause, Dimka soberly replied: ‘Ibrahim, I like your guts. Come upstairs.’

    “As I gingerly took my steps up the stairs, a visibly fretful Ugokwe pleaded with me to be very careful. I waved Chris away, reminding him that ‘Bukar’ (his middle name, by which close friends called Dimka) and I had come a long way. Besides, being a trained officer, I was confident that Dimka would not shoot an unarmed colleague.

    “And Dimka was indeed a close friend, one of the groomsmen at my wedding to Maryam in Kaduna in 1969. A 1963 Australian Army Officer Cadet School graduate in Portsea, Australia, Dimka was one of the first Nigerian army officers to be trained in faraway Australia. Although he had risen to the rank of Lieutenant-Colonel in the Physical Training Corps of the Army, he lived on the edge and earned himself a crappy reputation for womanising and heavy drinking.
    When I got upstairs, I could tell from his breath that he had had a lot to drink.

    “The stench of alcohol from around him and his boys was pungent. Chris Ugokwe was right, after all! I needed to be careful because the atmosphere was so charged that any wrong move could lead to the loss of lives. To keep Dimka at ease, I opened the conversation. ‘Bukar, why didn’t you tell me you were planning this? Com’on, you and I are supposed to be close.’
    ‘No, we couldn’t trust you. We didn’t know where you belonged. But I hope you know that you are one of the most unpopular officers in the Nigerian army today.’ he blurted out, his glaring bloodshot eyes betraying evidence of tiredness and confusion.

    “He continued this time with a self-applauding, misplaced cockiness: ‘Ibrahim, you’re lucky to be alive because you were one of those pencilled down to be killed, but I was against it. And if I wanted to do it, I would have done it when you walked in now!’‘Why me?’ I asked him.
    ‘Because people felt that officers like Danjuma favoured you and liked you more than other officers,’ he replied. How could YOU be a member of the Supreme Military Council? he queried.

    “Then, suddenly, his ADC, 2nd Lt Garba, also visibly drunk, nervously showed up and suggested that Dimka take me hostage and use me as a bargaining chip with the government. Dimka angrily screamed at Garba and chased him out. Once Garba scampered out, Dimka and I settled for a ‘frank’ discussion. In doing so, I reminded him of the need to keep things under control to avoid flaring tempers in the circumstances we had all found ourselves in.
    First, he wanted to know if I had come to trick him into some form of surrender, akin to what happened to Chukwuma Nzeogwu during the January 1966 coup when Lt-Col. Conrad Nwawo came to Kaduna to persuade Nzeogwu to give himself up in return for some form of amnesty. When I convinced him that that was not my mission, he calmed down and listened. I asked him what he wanted, and he said he wanted a change of government. He even attempted to persuade me to join them in their attempt!

    “But even as he made that intolerable request of me, it was apparent from his body language that he knew the game was up. Then, his tone started to change. Could I guarantee his safety? Could I negotiate a written amnesty for him and all his co-plotters? Again, as I had done earlier, I pleaded with him to give himself up and avoid any form of conflagration that could damage the Radio House and lead to the death of civilians and soldiers. That chit-chat went on for quite some time, and when I appeared not to be making headway with him, I left with a promise to return later.

    “Only after I left Dimka did I get a better glimpse of what had happened in the past few hours. Apart from General Muhammed, who had earlier been murdered, a group of mutineers, in a case of mistaken identity, opened fire on the car carrying Colonel Reis Dumuje on Awolowo Road, believing that Lieutenant-General Olusegun Obasanjo was in the vehicle. Fortunately, Dumuje survived. In Kwara State, the Military Governor, Colonel Ibrahim Taiwo, was abducted outside Offa by Lieutenant Zagni and some NCOs and murdered.

    “In Ibadan, another group of mutineers led by Major Gagara went on a rampage and invaded the 26th Infantry Battalion and the WNBS/WNTV Broadcast House in Agodi. However, they could not capture the Military Governor of Oyo State, Colonel David Jemibewon, who was also to have been killed. And, as subsequent investigations showed, the mutineers laid other ambushes for General Danjuma and other senior members of the administration. I was pained to discover that not only were my close friends, such as Colonel Wya, Lt-Col. Tense, Major Ola Ogunmekan, Major Joe Kasai, and Major Alfa Aliyu, knee-deep in the plot, one of them that was closest to me, Major Clement Dabang, would be the one to suggest that I be killed.

    “Meanwhile, I returned to General Danjuma to give him a report of my encounter with Dimka. Danjuma was furious. He ordered me back to the Radio House with a reiteration of his earlier instructions to ‘flush Dimka out of place immediately.’ I returned to Radio House with Chris Ugokwe, better equipped and prepared. By now, we had been joined by, among others, Mike Otuwa, James Ojokojo, John Shagaya and Jack Iketubosin. But first, I had to reach out to my friend and classmate, Sani Sami, who commanded the Brigade of Guards, to handle a difficult assignment. The Brigade of Guards’ barracks provided easy access to the Radio House. But again, I had to be careful since I wasn’t sure whether the Brigade was still loyal to the government.

    “Sani Sami and I consulted and agreed that there should be minimum destruction. And that we would do what we were taught as cadets in situations involving a civilian population to ensure that civilians got out of the way and didn’t get injured. Once that was done, we moved in, cordoned off the area and engaged the mutineers in a gun battle. There were casualties in the ensuing armed confrontation, including Dimka’s ADC, 2nd Lt Garba. Also, one of the other vital plotters, Major Ibrahim Rabo, was arrested by Major Yomi Williams as he tried to escape and was promptly taken to the Bonny camp for interrogation. But, somehow, Dimka, quite inexplicably to this day, managed to escape from the scene unharmed.

    “Later that evening, the Federal government announced that the coup attempt had been quashed and declared seven days of national mourning in Murtala’s honour. The next day, February 14, General Muhammed was buried in Kano at a ceremony witnessed by thousands of mourners and members of the SMC, including Major- General Bisalla, who would later be implicated in the coup attempt.”
    🇳🇬IBB Reveals how Murtala Muhammed became the head of state and how he told Obasanjo and Danjuma that they would not be beholden to anyone as head of state, as well as the story about the day of his assassination in his Book 📚 📖 IBB, in his book, also revealed that the early days of the Muhammed administration witnessed an unprecedented wave of retirements in Nigeria’s public service that had never been seen before. He wrote: “One of the accusations against General Gowon (which, in retrospect, seemed unfair) was that he ran the business of governance ‘like a one-man show’! So, we, the ‘younger’ senior officers who had played a role in the coup, decided that the new post-Gowon government’s leadership must be overtly collective. So, while we concluded that Brigadier Murtala Muhammed should be the head of state, our preference was for him to operate only as first among equals, especially in his dealings with the two other prominent senior officers, Brigadiers Olusegun Obasanjo and Theophilus Danjuma. But we knew Muhammed enough to know he would need to be persuaded to accept such an arrangement.à “So, while the rest of us ‘younger’ senior officers waited in an adjacent room, Colonel Wushishi, Lieutenant-Colonels Joe Garba, Abdullahi Mohammed and Yar’Adua took Brigadiers Muhammed, Obasanjo and Danjuma to another room to negotiate the terms of our proposal for a triumvirate-type leadership where Muhammed will be required to share power with Obasanjo and Danjuma. I couldn’t describe the mood since we were absent from that meeting. But we were close enough to pick up Muhammed’s thundering voice, rejecting such proposals outrightly. As far as I remember, the meeting lasted for hours past midnight. Finally, Murtala Muhammed agreed to be head of state while insisting that he would not be beholden to anyone as head of state! In a prompt style that typified his leadership, he quickly announced several retirements the next day, just as he made new appointments. All officers above the rank of Major-General or senior to any new government member were compulsorily retired. Those retired included such persons as the Chief of Staff, Supreme Headquarters, Vice-Admiral Joseph Wey; the Deputy Chief of Staff, Supreme Headquarters, Major-General Hassan Katsina; the Chief of Staff (Army), Major-General David Ejoor; the Chief of Naval Staff, Rear Admiral Nelson Soroh; the Chief of Air Staff, Brigadier Emmanuel Ikwue; the Inspector-General of Police, Alhaji Kam Salem; the Deputy Inspector-General of Police, T. A. Fagbola and Major-General Adeyinka Adebayo. “These retirements were followed simultaneously with new appointments. While the Commissioner for Works and Housing from the old SMC, Brigadier Olusegun Obasanjo, replaced Vice- Admiral Wey as the new Chief of Staff, Supreme Headquarters, Brigadier Theophilus Danjuma replaced Major-General Ejoor as the Chief of Staff (Army). Danjuma would change the designation of that position upon resumption of office to ‘Chief of Army Staff,’ which has remained the designation ever since. The only surviving senior army officer from Gowon’s SMC, Brigadier Iliya Bisalla, also the NDA’s Commandant, became Minister of Defence. Alhaji Mohammed Dikko Yusuf became the Inspector-General of Police. Colonel John Yisa-Doko took over from Brigadier Emmanuel Ikwue as Chief of Air Staff, while Commodore Michael Adelanwa replaced Rear Admiral Nelson Soroh as Chief of Naval Staff. “The early days of the Muhammed administration witnessed an unprecedented wave of retirements in Nigeria’s public service that had never been seen before. After the twelve military governors from the Gowon era were compulsorily retired, the government ordered a probe of their conduct in office. “Ten of the twelve governors were found guilty of illegal enrichment and ‘dismissed with ignominy.’ Brigadiers Oluwole Rotimi and Mobolaji Johnson were the only two not found to have enriched themselves illegally. “Some civilian members of the Gowon cabinet were also found to have enriched themselves illegally. Apart from Alhaji Shehu Shagari, the Finance Commissioner and Alhaji Ali Monguno, who was in charge of Mines and Power, the government found all others guilty of improper enrichment and were made to forfeit illegally acquired assets. Similarly, in a broad wave of retirements that affected thousands of civil servants, many top civil servants were also caught in the web of asset forfeiture of ill-gotten assets. Even the revered Federal Public Service Commission Chairman, Alhaji Sule Katagum, was not spared. He was also dismissed. “Looking back now and writing as a member of the SMC, I realise we probably overdid the retirement exercise. The idea of retiring corrupt and incompetent public officers was appropriate. But because we failed to provide a platform for challenging retirements in the surge of events, some civil servants may have been victims of an unfair witch-hunt. Goaded on by a seemingly over-exuberant mass media, we didn’t look deeply at the implications of the mass purge, mainly as it affected the civil service. I am not sure our federal civil service fully recovered from that purge. The General Murtala Assassination. “FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 1976, started like any typical day for me. I lived at No 19 Crescent, Ikoyi, Lagos, although my troops were stationed at the cantonment in Ikeja. However, because the Committee on Army Reorganisation, which I headed, was furiously at work during that period, I reported first in the morning at Defence Headquarters, which was close by, before heading out to Ikeja. “My regular route to army headquarters was through the faster Osborne Road. But for some reason, on this fateful morning, as my driver opted at about 8.45 a.m. to turn right through our regular route, I instinctively told him to turn left and go through the more open Kingsway Road to avoid possible traffic congestion. That decision may have saved my life because, unknown to me, Major Ibrahim Rabo’s men, led by Lieutenant Peter Cigari, had been detailed to ambush and kill me on the Osborne Road route. At that time, I was oblivious to the fact that the so-called Dimka coup, which led to the assassination of General Murtala Muhammed, his ADC, Lieutenant Akintunde Akinsehinwa and his driver, Sergeant Adamu Michika, had been operational for over an hour. Muhammed’s orderly, who was also in the car, Staff Sergeant Michael Otuwe, narrowly survived the onslaught. “The plotters’ strategy was to lay several ambushes for different government members along their routes to work that morning. As emerged from subsequent investigations, Major Ibrahim Rabo, Captain Malaki Parwang and Lieutenant William Seri, led by Lt-Col. Bukar Suka Dimka, laid in wait for Muhammed’s entourage. In a well-coordinated plan, Dimka assigned each assassin specific roles and functions. In aiming his shots at Muhammed, Lieutenant Seri was said to be so ruthless that he emptied more than one magazine of ammunition into the car carrying the head of state. “The scene was in disarray when I arrived at the army headquarters, still oblivious to what had happened. But I soon found out that a coup attempt was ongoing and that it needed to be put down. I’ll never forget my exchange with General Akinrinade as I sauntered into the top floor of the building: ‘Ibrahim, where the hell have you been?’ the General inquired. ‘We’ve been looking for you. You must go and see T. Y. (Danjuma) immediately,’ he continued. “Convinced I was being sought after because of our ongoing meeting on the army’s reorganisation, I looked at my wristwatch and told the General I was on time since it wasn’t yet 9 a.m.! ‘Who’s talking of a meeting?’ the General thundered back. ‘Haven’t you heard what happened, that the head of state has just been assassinated and that Major Dimka has made a broadcast claiming to have taken over?’ “I remember exactly how I felt that morning when General Akinrinade broke the news to me. I was utterly shattered and devastated. And I remember muttering to myself as I walked towards General Danjuma’s office: ‘Dimka, organising a coup? That’s not a serious character. How could he contemplate such a thing? Dimka? That’s impossible.’ “When I met with Danjuma, his instructions were unambiguous: ‘Ibrahim, go to the Radio House and flush Dimka out of that place immediately.’ The first thing I did was to get in touch with my troops stationed at the Ikeja cantonment. But I also knew I had to be careful with so much uncertainty in the air since I wasn’t sure where they stood regarding their loyalty. After I failed to establish contact with any of my most trusted lieutenants by telephone, I quickly hopped on a motorcycle ridden by a young corporal, whose name I forget now. On our way to Ikeja, I stopped at Lt-Col. Hamzat Abdullahi’s residence at Ilupeju, close to the Ikeja cantonment. Once I confirmed that it was safe to enter the cantonment, I borrowed Hamzat’s car and entered the premises through a rear entrance. Once inside the cantonment, I established contact with Lt-Col. Chris Ugokwe. With the assistance of Lt-Cols. Ugokwe and Joshua Dogonyaro, I mobilised loyal troops, weapons and vehicles before heading back to the Nigerian Broadcasting Corporation (NBC) Radio House at Ikoyi. “When we got to Radio House in an armoured column, we noticed that Dimka’s men surrounded the place, primarily young officers who were a part of the plot, including his ADC, 2nd Lt Samuel Garba. As I got down from my armoured vehicle, unarmed, and approached the building, Dimka’s ADC, Garba, attempted to stop me. By now, Dimka had spotted me from the storey building and screamed: ‘Ibrahim, I’m going to shoot you’! I shouted back: ‘Well, that’s okay. If you shoot me, you know my family. You’ll take care of them. They’ll become your responsibility. I have no problem. It would be nice to die in the hands of a friend.’ After a pause, Dimka soberly replied: ‘Ibrahim, I like your guts. Come upstairs.’ “As I gingerly took my steps up the stairs, a visibly fretful Ugokwe pleaded with me to be very careful. I waved Chris away, reminding him that ‘Bukar’ (his middle name, by which close friends called Dimka) and I had come a long way. Besides, being a trained officer, I was confident that Dimka would not shoot an unarmed colleague. “And Dimka was indeed a close friend, one of the groomsmen at my wedding to Maryam in Kaduna in 1969. A 1963 Australian Army Officer Cadet School graduate in Portsea, Australia, Dimka was one of the first Nigerian army officers to be trained in faraway Australia. Although he had risen to the rank of Lieutenant-Colonel in the Physical Training Corps of the Army, he lived on the edge and earned himself a crappy reputation for womanising and heavy drinking. When I got upstairs, I could tell from his breath that he had had a lot to drink. “The stench of alcohol from around him and his boys was pungent. Chris Ugokwe was right, after all! I needed to be careful because the atmosphere was so charged that any wrong move could lead to the loss of lives. To keep Dimka at ease, I opened the conversation. ‘Bukar, why didn’t you tell me you were planning this? Com’on, you and I are supposed to be close.’ ‘No, we couldn’t trust you. We didn’t know where you belonged. But I hope you know that you are one of the most unpopular officers in the Nigerian army today.’ he blurted out, his glaring bloodshot eyes betraying evidence of tiredness and confusion. “He continued this time with a self-applauding, misplaced cockiness: ‘Ibrahim, you’re lucky to be alive because you were one of those pencilled down to be killed, but I was against it. And if I wanted to do it, I would have done it when you walked in now!’‘Why me?’ I asked him. ‘Because people felt that officers like Danjuma favoured you and liked you more than other officers,’ he replied. How could YOU be a member of the Supreme Military Council? he queried. “Then, suddenly, his ADC, 2nd Lt Garba, also visibly drunk, nervously showed up and suggested that Dimka take me hostage and use me as a bargaining chip with the government. Dimka angrily screamed at Garba and chased him out. Once Garba scampered out, Dimka and I settled for a ‘frank’ discussion. In doing so, I reminded him of the need to keep things under control to avoid flaring tempers in the circumstances we had all found ourselves in. First, he wanted to know if I had come to trick him into some form of surrender, akin to what happened to Chukwuma Nzeogwu during the January 1966 coup when Lt-Col. Conrad Nwawo came to Kaduna to persuade Nzeogwu to give himself up in return for some form of amnesty. When I convinced him that that was not my mission, he calmed down and listened. I asked him what he wanted, and he said he wanted a change of government. He even attempted to persuade me to join them in their attempt! “But even as he made that intolerable request of me, it was apparent from his body language that he knew the game was up. Then, his tone started to change. Could I guarantee his safety? Could I negotiate a written amnesty for him and all his co-plotters? Again, as I had done earlier, I pleaded with him to give himself up and avoid any form of conflagration that could damage the Radio House and lead to the death of civilians and soldiers. That chit-chat went on for quite some time, and when I appeared not to be making headway with him, I left with a promise to return later. “Only after I left Dimka did I get a better glimpse of what had happened in the past few hours. Apart from General Muhammed, who had earlier been murdered, a group of mutineers, in a case of mistaken identity, opened fire on the car carrying Colonel Reis Dumuje on Awolowo Road, believing that Lieutenant-General Olusegun Obasanjo was in the vehicle. Fortunately, Dumuje survived. In Kwara State, the Military Governor, Colonel Ibrahim Taiwo, was abducted outside Offa by Lieutenant Zagni and some NCOs and murdered. “In Ibadan, another group of mutineers led by Major Gagara went on a rampage and invaded the 26th Infantry Battalion and the WNBS/WNTV Broadcast House in Agodi. However, they could not capture the Military Governor of Oyo State, Colonel David Jemibewon, who was also to have been killed. And, as subsequent investigations showed, the mutineers laid other ambushes for General Danjuma and other senior members of the administration. I was pained to discover that not only were my close friends, such as Colonel Wya, Lt-Col. Tense, Major Ola Ogunmekan, Major Joe Kasai, and Major Alfa Aliyu, knee-deep in the plot, one of them that was closest to me, Major Clement Dabang, would be the one to suggest that I be killed. “Meanwhile, I returned to General Danjuma to give him a report of my encounter with Dimka. Danjuma was furious. He ordered me back to the Radio House with a reiteration of his earlier instructions to ‘flush Dimka out of place immediately.’ I returned to Radio House with Chris Ugokwe, better equipped and prepared. By now, we had been joined by, among others, Mike Otuwa, James Ojokojo, John Shagaya and Jack Iketubosin. But first, I had to reach out to my friend and classmate, Sani Sami, who commanded the Brigade of Guards, to handle a difficult assignment. The Brigade of Guards’ barracks provided easy access to the Radio House. But again, I had to be careful since I wasn’t sure whether the Brigade was still loyal to the government. “Sani Sami and I consulted and agreed that there should be minimum destruction. And that we would do what we were taught as cadets in situations involving a civilian population to ensure that civilians got out of the way and didn’t get injured. Once that was done, we moved in, cordoned off the area and engaged the mutineers in a gun battle. There were casualties in the ensuing armed confrontation, including Dimka’s ADC, 2nd Lt Garba. Also, one of the other vital plotters, Major Ibrahim Rabo, was arrested by Major Yomi Williams as he tried to escape and was promptly taken to the Bonny camp for interrogation. But, somehow, Dimka, quite inexplicably to this day, managed to escape from the scene unharmed. “Later that evening, the Federal government announced that the coup attempt had been quashed and declared seven days of national mourning in Murtala’s honour. The next day, February 14, General Muhammed was buried in Kano at a ceremony witnessed by thousands of mourners and members of the SMC, including Major- General Bisalla, who would later be implicated in the coup attempt.”
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