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Trump Promises $5,000 Payment to Americans if Republicans Retain Congress

September 10, 2026 by Maria Adeleke

US President Donald Trump has pledged to introduce a $5,000 federal “dividend” for every adult American if Republicans maintain control of both chambers of Congress in November’s midterm elections. Trump made the pledge on Wednesday at the Republican Party’s first-ever midterm convention in Dallas, Texas, turning an election rally into a pitch that could put billions of dollars directly into Americans’ pockets. “If the Republicans win the House of Representatives and the United States Senate, both of them,” Trump said, he would issue the payment “to every adult citizen in the United States of America for $5,000.” Reuters reported that Trump called the proposed payment a dividend and gave no further details about how the scheme would be funded or implemented. ABC News similarly reported that Trump told the convention he would issue a $5,000 “dividend” to every adult American if Republicans held on to the House and Senate. The network quoted him as saying the proposal was possible “because of our tremendous strength and success economically.” Trump said the money would have to be spent within the United States. “The only caveat I have is that the dividend that we’re making must be spent in the United States of America,” Reuters quoted him as saying. The proposal would represent a huge federal outlay. Reuters estimated that paying $5,000 to roughly 270 million American adults could cost about $1.35tn. The news agency also reported that the legality and practical operation of the proposal were not immediately clear. The Associated Press reported that the proposed payments would likely cost more than $1tn, while questions remained over how they could be financed and administered. It also noted that Vice President JD Vance appeared to qualify Trump’s promise by suggesting that wealthier Americans could potentially be excluded. The pledge comes as Republicans fight to retain their congressional majorities in the November 3 midterm elections, with all seats in the House and about one-third of Senate seats at stake. Trump sought to make himself central to the campaign despite not being on the ballot, telling supporters to vote as though he were running. ABC News quoted him telling the crowd: “So I’m asking you to pretend that I’m on the ballot. I’m on the ballot. I’m on the ballot.” The president’s latest proposal also echoes an earlier idea for direct payments to Americans. Forbes reported in February 2025 that Trump was considering a “DOGE dividend” funded from savings generated by the Department of Government Efficiency, after Elon Musk proposed $5,000 refund cheques for taxpayers. That earlier proposal did not become a nationwide $5,000 payment. Trump’s latest announcement is therefore a political promise, not an existing federal payment programme. Any such scheme would require a mechanism for funding and implementation, with Reuters reporting that no further details were immediately available. The Republican Party’s convention comes against a difficult political backdrop for the party, with Reuters reporting that Trump’s approval ratings and voter dissatisfaction over the economy and the war in Iran have created risks for Republican candidates seeking re-election.

UCL: Ødegaard Seals Arsenal’s 1st Win With Napoli Stunner

September 9, 2026 by Maria Adeleke

Martin Ødegaard struck in the 75th minute as Arsenal secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Napoli in their Champions League league-phase opener. The Arsenal captain, on Wednesday night, curled a left-footed effort from outside the box that went in off the far post, assisted by substitute Christos Tzolis, to give the Gunners a deserved lead after they had dominated for long periods. Arsenal controlled possession and created the clearer chances throughout, firing in more than 20 shots. Napoli, missing key players including Scott McTominay, struggled to break down a solid Arsenal defence under Massimiliano Allegri. After four minutes of added time, the referee blew the final whistle. Mikel Arteta shook hands with Allegri, who then walked straight down the tunnel. The result gives Arsenal a strong start to their European campaign following last season’s runners-up finish. Arsenal, Napoli find breakthroughArsenal dominated the contest from the outset, registering a club-record 13 shots in the first half of a Champions League away fixture. Clear openings went begging, however, with Mikel Merino’s early header straight at Alex Meret, Bukayo Saka blazing over when clean through just before the interval, and Piero Hincapié somehow directing the ball over the bar from close range early in the second half. The introduction of substitutes, including Christos Tzolis and Noni Madueke, added fresh impetus. Madueke himself spurned a late one-on-one opportunity that would have made the scoreline more comfortable. Despite the wastefulness in front of goal, the visitors’ control never seriously wavered, and David Raya was rarely tested as Arsenal claimed a hard-earned clean sheet on the road. The result extends Arsenal’s perfect start to the season across all competitions and provides an ideal platform as they turn their attention to Saturday’s Premier League trip to Sunderland. A post match report on the club website stated, “After the first of four successive away games, we’re back in action on Saturday night when we make the long trip to Sunderland, before we turn our attention to the Carabao Cup and a third-round tie with Ipswich Town at Portman Road on Tuesday. “Then we finish off before the international break with a meeting with Brighton & Hove Albion on Saturday, September 19.”

Over 1,500 Food Enthusiasts, Artistes To Storm Ibadan For Chops’N’Chill 4.0

September 9, 2026 by Maria Adeleke

No fewer than 1,500 food lovers, chefs, creatives, entrepreneurs and entertainment enthusiasts are expected to converge on Ibadan, Oyo State, for the Ibadanchops’N’Chill culinary, entertainment and lifestyle festival. The organisers said between 1,500 and 2,000 people were expected at the event, which is designed to celebrate Nigerian food culture, emerging culinary talents and the creativity of young people in the food and hospitality industry. The convener of Ibadanchops’N’Chill, Chinwendu Fetus, popularly known as Chef Wendy, disclosed this in a statement issued ahead of the event. She said the festival would be held under the theme, “Empowering Young Chefs, Celebrating Nigerian Flavours,” adding that the event would combine culinary competition, live entertainment, networking and lifestyle experiences. According to Chef Wendy, the festival is intended to create a vibrant platform where food lovers can enjoy Nigerian flavours while young chefs get the opportunity to showcase their skills before a live audience. One of the major attractions of the event will be a live performance by Fuji musician, Alhaji Taye Currency. The popular Fuji artiste is expected to headline the entertainment segment, adding a musical dimension to the culinary and lifestyle activities planned for the festival. The culinary competition will also feature established professionals in the food industry, with Chef Amaka, Chef Dee and Chef T expected to serve as judges. Chef Wendy said the judges would assess the competing chefs while sharing their expertise and professional experiences with the participants. She explained that the competition was designed to encourage creativity, build confidence and provide young chefs with valuable exposure within the food and hospitality industry. The convener said the festival was not solely about entertainment but was also created to support the growth of young culinary talents and food entrepreneurs. She said participants would be able to demonstrate their culinary abilities, connect with established professionals, interact with potential customers and build relationships with other players in the sector. According to her, the initiative would help draw attention to emerging talents whose creativity and innovation are contributing to the development of Nigeria’s culinary industry. Chef Wendy, who is the founder of Wendy’s Kitchen and Wendy’s Culinary Hub, said her experience in the culinary space had strengthened her commitment to creating platforms that promote food creativity and provide opportunities for young chefs. She said Ibadanchops’N’Chill was conceived as an avenue to bring together different segments of the culinary and creative industries while celebrating the richness and diversity of Nigerian food. The event, she added, would create opportunities for networking, collaboration and cultural exchange among chefs, food entrepreneurs, creatives, influencers, media personalities and members of the public. Chef Wendy noted that the growth of Nigeria’s food and hospitality industry had created opportunities for young people, stressing the need for platforms that could help them gain visibility and develop professionally. She said the festival would place Nigerian flavours and culinary creativity at the centre of a memorable public experience. She called on food lovers, chefs, creatives, media organisations, industry stakeholders and members of the public to attend the event and support the emerging culinary talents.

Oladapo Rolls Out Ambitious Plans as Oyo NUJ Election Gains Momentum

November 21, 2025 by admin

Ahead of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Oyo State Council election slated for December, one of the leading contenders for the chairmanship position, Comrade Olusola Oladapo “Summer”, has formally unveiled his agenda for the Union, promising a leadership focused on welfare, capacity-building, transparency and unity. The flag-off of his electioneering campaign, held on Thursday at the Press Centre, Iyaganku, Ibadan, drew members, stakeholders and senior figures in the state’s media community, all gathered to hear the candidate outline his vision for the Council. Oladapo, who currently serves as the Secretary of the Council, said his ambition “is driven by a desire to reposition the Union as a model of welfare, professionalism and ethical journalism.” The Director-General of his campaign, Dare Adekanmbi, described the moment as “a new dawn for journalists in Oyo State,” adding that if Oladapo is elected, members would begin to experience a union that truly protects their welfare, expands professional opportunities and restores dignity to the practice. Adekanmbi said the agenda being presented is rooted in transparency, inclusiveness and service, assuring journalists that “under Oladapo, NUJ Oyo will not only work for journalists but will stand by them in every moment that matters.” Speaking on his manifesto, Oladapo assured journalists that his administration, if elected, would prioritise dignity, protection and economic empowerment of every member, including establishing a Welfare and Emergency Fund to support colleagues during health challenges, bereavement or sudden hardship. According to him, journalists in the state deserved better structures of support, saying he plans to secure group health insurance, provide safety kits annually for field workers and create a legal aid and safety desk to protect members from harassment or unlawful arrest during the discharge of their duties. He also announced plans to introduce consistent training programmes to strengthen the professional capacity of journalists in the state, saying quarterly workshops on digital reporting, data journalism and investigative techniques would become standard under his leadership. Oladapo added that an NUJ Training and Resource Centre would be established at the Press Centre, equipped with internet access, research tools and digital facilities to support reporters, editors and young media practitioners across the state. The chairmanship hopeful further emphasised economic empowerment as a major part of his agenda, promising to support media entrepreneurship by facilitating grants and business development training for journalists interested in starting online platforms, podcasts or production outfits. He noted that partnerships would be pursued with financial institutions and cooperative societies to provide soft loans, support small businesses and establish a Media Investment Cooperative that would give members financial leverage and sustainability. On transparency, Oladapo stated that he would publish quarterly financial reports and implement an open-door policy that allows every member access to information on spending, projects and operations of the Union, saying NUJ Oyo must “become the most transparent Council in Nigeria.” He also pledged to build stronger unity among the various chapels within the state and ensure gender balance, inclusiveness for freelancers and improved engagement with retired journalists through an alumni forum dedicated to welfare and mentorship. Oladapo revealed plans to upgrade the Press Centre into a modern media hub, complete with a digital studio, ICT-equipped conference rooms and a co-working space capable of generating revenue for the Union, alongside a digital membership database and mobile app to improve efficiency. He said partnerships with government institutions, corporate bodies, NGOs and international media organisations would be strengthened to create more opportunities, training platforms and protections for journalists working in the state. Addressing rumours that he had spent too many years in NUJ leadership, Oladapo said service is not a crime, adding that those who are active in union activities are naturally the ones called upon to lead. “Leadership requires experience, not popularity,” he said, noting that he has served two terms as Chapel Secretary, two terms as State Ex-Officio, and later as Vice Chairman before becoming the current Council Secretary. He concluded by urging members to support his campaign and join in building a future where NUJ Oyo becomes a Union known for welfare, innovation and unwavering commitment to ethical journalism. Among the dignitaries that graced the occasion was the Chairman and Chief Executive of Broadcasting Corporation of Oyo State (BCOS), Mrs. Dotun Olaitan; the Zonal Director of the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation, Dr. Moses Oyelade; leaders of the NUJ Oyo State Council including former Chairmen, Chief Gbemiga Ayoade and Mr. Adewumi Faniran, among others.

(PHOTOS) Night of Worship 2025(November Edition) Delivers a Stirring Encounter with God

November 18, 2025 by admin

Ibadan – Grace Court Global came alive on Sunday as worshippers gathered for the highly anticipated Night of Worship 2025(November Edition) tagged: The outstretched arm of God. The evening proved extraordinary, leaving attendees deeply moved by a remarkable outpouring of God’s presence. Convened by Adeleke Maria, the concert unfolded as a heartfelt expression of gratitude, praise, and spiritual refreshing. The Night of Worship delivered a seamless blend of intense worship, soul-lifting music, and unforgettable moments of divine encounter. Speaking after the event, Maria expressed profound gratitude for the overwhelming support she received throughout the planning process and during the worship experience itself. “God truly did it. I was surrounded by people who carried this assignment like it was theirs,” she said. A major part of her appreciation went to her spiritual parents, Pastor Tosin & Pastor Mrs. Bukola Tope Babalola (The Host Pastors of Grace Court Global),whose steadfast guidance, prayers, and encouragement played a pivotal role in the success of the event. Their spiritual covering and unwavering involvement strengthened the foundation of the entire project. She also extended heartfelt gratitude to the guest minister, Pastor Laolu Samuel, who graced the event with an extraordinary ministration. Arriving with his dynamic team, the Fresh Wine Crew, Pastor Samuel brought an atmosphere of fresh anointing and excellence that greatly enriched the worship experience. His immense support for the program and the depth of his ministry left a lasting imprint. Additionally, the event’s project manager, Mr. Atilola Emmanuel, received notable commendation for his remarkable professionalism and expertise as an Event Manager. His capacity to coordinate diverse teams, streamline logistics, and ensure seamless execution was evident throughout the Night of Worship. From planning to production, Mr. Emmanuel’s dedication, attention to detail, and calm leadership greatly elevated the event’s overall excellence, contributing significantly to its success and smooth flow. His work stood out as a model of efficiency and commitment. The Grace Court Drama Department also drew wide admiration for their powerful ministration during the program themed “The Outstretched Arm of God.” Through a captivating performance filled with emotion, creativity, and spiritual depth, the team brought the theme to life in a way that resonated deeply with the audience. Their presentation not only enriched the worship experience but also conveyed a compelling message of God’s power, mercy, and unfailing presence, leaving many in the congregation visibly moved and inspired. Attendees described the Night of Worship as “a revival,” “an unforgettable encounter,” and “a night where heaven kissed the earth.” The choir, musicians, technical teams, and various support units of the church all played crucial roles in making the event a success. As the curtains closed, the host,Maria offered heartfelt thanks to every individual and department involved, affirming that the success of Night of Worship 2025 was a testimony of unity, sacrifice, and the undeniable grace of God. The church looks forward to an even bigger and more glorious edition in the coming year.

Islamic Group To Inaugurate Sharia Court In Oyo This January

December 24, 2024 by admin

The Oyo State chapter of the Supreme Council for Shari’ah in Nigeria, an Islamic organization, has announced plans to establish a Sharia court within the state and its surrounding areas. The group, in a flier that went viral on Tuesday, invited guests from across the country to the court’s inauguration ceremony, which will be held on January 11, 2025, at the Muslim Community Islamic Centre, Oba Adeyemi High School Road, Mobolaje Area, Oyo. The flier also listed Bashorun of Oyo land, High Chief Yusuf Akinade Olayinka 1 as Royal father of the day; Mufairu of Oyo land, Alhaji Abdullateef Eleyele as the Spiritual father of the day, and Aare Musulumi of Oyo land, Alhaji Tajudeen Kamorise as the chief host. However, the upcoming ceremony has been greeted by disapproval from netizens, with many arguing that the South West, populated by Yoruba people, is not in any way north where Muslims are more dominant. One X user who identified with the name #OurFavOnlineDoc said, “To whom it may concern, Please read this post and listen well. If sharia law gets implemented in your state, Let me tell you ahead what will happen. “You can be randomly arrested and imprisoned for ‘indecent dressing’. EVEN IF you are not a Muslim, EVEN if you are a Christian, EVEN IF you are a traditionalist, EVEN IF you don’t subscribe to Sharia, and EVEN if you are an atheist. “During Ramadan, you can be arrested for selling food. Even if you are not a Muslim. As long as they can claim you were selling it to Muslims. I am NOT telling you what they may do. I am telling you what they have ALREADY done.” He continued, “Once you hear ‘sharia law’, just run for your life. They will use it to kill, imprison, cut off people’s limbs, torture, and institutionalise oppression. And guess who the biggest victims will be? The poor and the less privileged. You better lend your voice to say no. Another netizen who tweeted with the handle #Baba Ajisefa wrote, “If you’re silent on this sharia law saga in southwest, then you’re enabling it. Even if we can’t see the implications of the laws in other nations, we can see it in the north. “The question is ‘what progress does it bring?’ And those that claim it will be for Muslims only don’t forget that was how they started in the north, and Hisbah can arrest anyone now. We reject Sharia law in its entirety. No to sharia law in Yorubaland.” “Reject any Sharia, anything. Don’t even concede an inch. Because na so e dey start,” one Ugo on X.com opined. An X user who tweeted with the handle #Alabi said, “Genuine question: If you’re so passionate about Sharia, why not move to where it is practiced?” “This Sharia Law conversation proves that amalgamating Nigeria was a terrible decision, and true federalism/regional sectionalism or ‘un-amalgamation’ would be the solution. Because why should the entire country be subject to the religious limitations of a select people?? “Especially because this is what led to the Taliban and the downfall of Afghanistan. No country should ever be subjected to such extreme religious practices. I don’t need your extremes to police my flaws. Enforce it in your household. Thank you,” one user, Motolani Alake, wrote on X.com. In his opinion, a user who identified as Tosin.X wrote, “Some of you think to say Sharia na play. Na from Quilox Lagos Isbah go carry you go kirikiri.” Meanwhile, every attempt by our correspondent to reach the Chairman and Secretary of Sharia Committee in Oyo land, Dr Rafiu Bello and Sulaimon Abuqoodi, proved abortive, as calls and messages sent to their mobile numbers were neither taken nor responded to.

Bobrisky Falls Ill In Police Custody, Rushed To Hospital

October 23, 2024 by admin

Controversial crossdresser, Okuneye Idris, popularly known as Bobrisky, has reportedly fallen ill while in detention at the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) Annex, Alagbon, Lagos. After spending the night in a police cell, Bobrisky was rushed to Falomo Police Hospital for medical attention. A source confirmed the development, stating that he was transferred from the FCID to the hospital for treatment. The source said, “Bobrisky complained of ‘breast’ pain and was rushed to the Police Hospital in the Falomo area of Lagos around 2:00 p.m. in an ambulance with the plate number LND 339L. He wore a black gown, covered his face with a shawl, and lay down in the ambulance.” Bobrisky was taken into custody on Monday night by the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) following his arrest at the Seme border in Lagos during an alleged attempt to leave the country. There are indications that he may remain in detention as detectives continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding his arrest. The FCID is expected to obtain a remand order for his continued detention. A statement from the FCID regarding Bobrisky’s situation is expected later today. NIS spokesperson, Kenneth Udo, confirmed the arrest, describing Bobrisky as “a person of interest.” He further stated that the NIS had intercepted him at the Seme border as part of their efforts to secure Nigeria’s borders.

THUGS ATTACK ANTI-FGM ACTIVIST … Volunteers injured, maimed, others killed

October 28, 2026October 15, 2024 by Maria Adeleke

In September 2024, an anti-Female Genital Mutilation activist, Fatimah Olaitan Gbemisola, a Nigeria Registered Nurse-Midwife, and other activists and volunteers were attacked by hoodlums during a peaceful protest along the Government Secretariat Road, Ibadan. The thugs who were armed with sticks, cudgels, machetes and other dangerous weapons had descended on the unsuspecting group, chanting ‘ E pa Fatimah ati awon ti e’ (meaning ‘Kill Fatimah and her people’). Several of the activists and volunteers were injured, while few others were killed in the struggle. According to witnesses, aside of those that were killed, Fatimah was also brutally stabbed before she was whisked out of the immediate vicinity of attack by some of the volunteers and some good Samaritans who bundled her into the trunk of a passing car straight to the hospital and ensure her escape. In October 2024, Fatimah was also attacked at the premises of Fresh FM where she had gone to speak on Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), forced early marriage, rights of the girl-child and what transpired at the protest of the previous month. Fatimah was snuggled out of the back of the radio station to escape the irate mob waiting for her at the entrance. Since that last narrow escape, Fatimah has been on the run. Her family has declared a black sheep, while traditionalists and other religious groups are out to deal decisively with her. Information from some close friends and fellow activists indicates Fatimah as at the time of filing this report she’s no where to be found.

Wife Of Former Oyo Governor, Tinuade Ladoja, Dies at 71

October 15, 2024 by admin

Tinuade Ladoja, wife of former Oyo State Governor and Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland, Rashidi Ladoja, passed away on Monday morning after a brief illness. She was 71. The former governor’s media aide, Adeola Oloko, confirmed her demise in a telephone interview, saying, “Yes, it is confirmed. She is dead. May God repose her soul.” Until her passing, Tinuade held significant influence as a member of the Pastor-in-Council of the Celestial Church of Christ, the church’s highest decision-making body. She was also a dedicated member of the CCC Ikeja Parish 1 Cathedral. The parish announced her death on its Facebook page, quoting Psalm 100:3: “It is He who has made us, and not we ourselves; we are His people and the sheep of His pasture. We submit to His will.” The post concluded with a simple “#farewell.” Tinuade’s legacy and contributions to the community will be deeply missed.

Hon. Olayinka Segelu Condoles With Alhaji Abdulwasiu Tomiwa Omolewa Over Wife’s Death

October 14, 2024 by admin

By Adeleke Maria A gubernatorial aspirant for the 2027 election in Oyo State under the umbrella of People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Hon. Olayinka Segelu is deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Alhaja Ganiyat Omolewa the beloved wife of Alhaji Abdulwasiu Tomiwa Omolewa. Hon. Segelu sends his heartfelt condolences during this incredibly difficult time. Alhaji Tommy as you are fondly called, your strength and kindness in the face of adversity have always inspired me, and I have immense respect for the support you have offered to countless individuals, including myself. I remember our time together, where you selflessly devoted an entire day to guide me, demonstrating not only your commitment to helping others but also your love for your own family. I admire your belief that one day, we may all need a helping hand. May you find comfort in the cherished memories you shared with your wife and in the love of those around you. My thoughts and prayers are with you, your family, and all the PMS staff across Oyo State during this time of mourning. Accept my condolences!