Presidency Denies Senator’s Claims Regarding 2024 Budget

Obasempire reports that the presidency has refuted claims made by Senator Abdul Ningi, accusing him of spreading falsehoods regarding President Bola Tinubu’s handling of the 2024 budget.

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Senator Ningi, in an interview with BBC Hausa, alleged discrepancies between the budget passed by the National Assembly and the one being implemented by the federal government.

He asserted that the budget presented by President Tinubu amounted to N28.7 trillion, contrary to the N25 trillion passed by the Assembly.

However, Bayo Onanuga, a presidential spokesperson, rebuffed Ningi’s assertions in a statement, labeling them as untrue.

“To set the record straight, President Tinubu presented a budget of N27.5 trillion to the National Assembly on November 29, 2023, comprising N9.92 trillion for recurrent expenditure, N8.25 trillion for debt service, and N8.7 trillion for capital expenditure,” Onanuga clarified.

Contrary to Ningi’s claims, Onanuga emphasized that the Senate could not have debated and passed a N25 trillion budget that was never presented to the National Assembly.

“We don’t expect a senior senator to overlook such details before making baseless allegations,” Onanuga remarked.

Furthermore, Onanuga underscored that the budget signed into law by President Tinubu on January 1, 2024, amounted to N28.7 trillion, as passed by the National Assembly.

Reports suggested that Ningi and other senators, in a closed-door meeting, also accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio of unlawfully inflating the budget.

Read More: Deputy Speaker Addresses Lawmakers’ Salaries, Rejects Calls for Reduction

Akpabio, however, denied the allegations during the meeting.

Regarding Ningi’s claim of bias against the North in the budget, Onanuga asserted,

“President Tinubu’s administration is committed to fairness and equity across all regions of Nigeria.”The presidential rebuttal seeks to dispel misinformation and reaffirm the government’s commitment to transparency and equitable governance.

Audio: Nigeria’s Music Scene Welcomes Bagetti, Jonzing World’s Premier Female Artist

Obasempire reports that the dynamic landscape of Nigeria’s music industry, has been witnessing fresh tunes flooding the airwaves weekly, and Bagetti emerges as the newest sensation.

Read More: Video: Simi Unveils Official Video for ‘All I Want’ Amid Controversy and Praise

She recently inked a deal with Jonzing World, marking her entry as the label’s inaugural female artist. Bagetti’s inaugural single, ‘Hard Girl’, dropped on March 5th, instantly captivating audiences with its distinct vibe.

Yet, her musical journey doesn’t stop there. Bagetti delighted fans by revealing plans for her debut EP titled ‘New Dawn’, slated for release on March 15th, 2024.

The EP promises a melodic journey with tracks such as ‘Toxic’, ‘Mirror Talk’, ‘Dawn’, ‘Language’, ‘Baby’, alongside her chart-topping hit, ‘Hard Girl’.

With her exceptional talent and a promising debut, enthusiasts eagerly await Bagetti’s ascent in the vibrant Nigerian music realm.

Download: Begatti_ Hard Girl

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Nollywood Icon “Mr Ibu” Passes Away at 62

Obasempire reports that the Nigerian film industry, renowned as Nollywood, is in mourning following the loss of one of its most cherished personalities, John Okafor, affectionately known as Mr Ibu.

Read More: Christians Condemn Asake’s “Only Me” Music Video, Cite Disrespect Towards Christianity

The actor, celebrated for his comedic performances, has bid farewell at the age of 62, leaving fans and colleagues grief-stricken.

The demise of Mr Ibu was verified by multiple sources and relayed by various media channels, disclosing that he breathed his last in the early hours at Evercare Hospital situated in Lekki Phase 1, Lagos State.

Concerns about Ibu’s well-being had been circulating among his admirers for the past few years. Reports surfaced indicating that before his demise, the actor had undergone numerous surgical procedures culminating in the amputation of his limb.

These health trials, intertwined with earlier accusations of poisoning leveled against the actor, portrayed a narrative of a man grappling with myriad challenges in his final years.In 2019, Mr Ibu alleged that his life was targeted by his kinsmen, envious of his flourishing career.

He asserted that some of his household staff were bribed to administer poison to him. This wasn’t the first instance the actor had raised such claims, having asserted multiple poisoning incidents throughout his illustrious career.

Read More: Video: Simi Unveils Official Video for ‘All I Want’ Amid Controversy and Praise

The announcement of his passing has triggered an avalanche of condolences from fans and peers alike, flooding various social media platforms with tributes and fond recollections of the joy Mr Ibu infused into their lives through his cinematic endeavors.

His distinct brand of humor and his knack for eliciting laughter from audiences will be profoundly missed within the entertainment sphere.

Miyetti Allah Calls For Immediate Arrest Of Sunday Igboho Over Inflammatory Statements

Obasempire reports that the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) has issued a stern demand for the prompt arrest and prosecution of Sunday Igboho, a prominent figure in the South West.

Read More: Christians Condemn Asake’s “Only Me” Music Video, Cite Disrespect Towards Christianity

This is following his recent incendiary remarks calling for the expulsion of Fulani cattle breeders from Yoruba land.

In an official statement released by MACBAN’s national president, Baba Othman Ngelzarma, the association condemned Igboho’s statements as unlawful and tantamount to treason, given his advocacy for the realization of the Oduduwa nation.

Sunday Igboho

MACBAN implored President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and relevant law enforcement agencies to take decisive action against Igboho, drawing parallels with the arrest and detention of Nnamdi Kanu for similar offenses.

Read More: Benjamin Kalu Commends Nigerians’ Resilience Amid Hardship, Advocates for Agricultural Subsidies

The statement reads: “We call on the commander-in-chief of the armed forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (GCFR) and relevant security agencies to arrest and prosecute Sunday Igboho for making this unlawful statement that amounts to treason because he is asking for the actualisation of Oduduwa nation.

“His statements are unlawful. If Nnamdi Kanu will be held behind bars for a similar offence, we see no reason why Sunday Igboho will be allowed to go scot-free

Christians Condemn Asake’s “Only Me” Music Video, Cite Disrespect Towards Christianity

Obasempire reports that critics within the Christian community have lashed out at Afrobeat sensation Ahmed Ololade, popularly known as Asake, over his latest music video titled “Only Me,” accusing him of showing disrespect towards Christianity.

Read More: Video: Simi Unveils Official Video for ‘All I Want’ Amid Controversy and Praise

Directed by TG Omori, the video has amassed over 150,000 views within a mere five hours of its release, featuring Asake adorned in priestly garments, a move that has ignited controversy among viewers.

Solomon_Buchi, expressing his dismay on Thursday via his social media handle, highlighted Asake’s recurrent disregard for the Christian faith in his music videos.

He criticized the portrayal of elements like the eucharist and priestly attire, arguing that they lacked relevance to the song’s theme.

Similarly, BG_Liberty condemned the video, rating it poorly and questioning the decisions behind its production and approval, considering its perceived disrespect towards Christianity.

AniBae94 expressed frustration at the recurring themes of disrespect towards Christianity in Asake’s videos, urging for unity within the Christian community to address such issues.

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Aliuhammeed2 underscored the importance of standing firm for one’s faith, cautioning against tolerance without boundaries, which he believes leads to degradation of religious values.

AbjaySeries criticized Christians who continue to support Asake’s music despite what he perceives as mockery of their faith, questioning their loyalty amidst such disrespect.

This incident echoes a similar backlash faced by singer Olamilekan Taiwo, also known as Logos Olori, following the release of his music video “Jaye Lo” in July 2023, which featured scenes near a mosque and incorporated Islamic phrases, drawing criticism from Muslim communities for its insensitivity.

Iyabo Ojo Drops Bombshell: Warns Of Explosive Exposé On Colleague Lizzy Anjorin

Obasempire reports that nollywood actress, Iyabo Ojo, has ignited a storm of speculation with her cryptic remarks, suggesting potential revelations about her colleague, Lizzy Anjorin, could rock the foundations of many homes and crash the internet.

Read More: Actor Etim Effiong Embraces Calabar Roots, Confesses To Daily Sex Drive

The actresses have been embroiled in a bitter feud, airing grievances and trading barbs across social media platforms in recent times.

Addressing her followers in an Instagram live session, Iyabo Ojo hinted at possessing incendiary information about Lizzy Anjorin, including specific details such as figures, times, and dates of certain events.

Expressing concern for the collateral damage that might ensue from exposing her colleague, Ojo disclosed issuing a cautionary message to Anjorin through her spouse to avoid entanglement in legal battles where mental health could be exploited as a defense.

She asserted, “If I come out and tell your story, the internet will crash, there is no blogger in Nigeria that will not carry this story because I go dey mention with names. That’s why I can’t come out and tell your story because I think of all the homes that will be broken.

“I will come out with facts and figures, date and time, name and place. I have a book where I wrote everything down, but you know what? I don’t need to go that route with you, not yet.

Read More: Benjamin Kalu Commends Nigerians’ Resilience Amid Hardship, Advocates for Agricultural Subsidies

“That’s why I warned your husband that he should go and treat you because I don’t want when we go to court, you’ll now start claiming you have mental health.

”The statement, laden with veiled threats and insinuations, adds another layer of intrigue to the ongoing saga between the two actresses.

Actor Etim Effiong Embraces Calabar Roots, Confesses To Daily Sex Drive

Obasempire reports that nollywood actor, Etim Effiong, has recently disclosed his robust sexual appetite.

Read More: Benjamin Kalu Commends Nigerians’ Resilience Amid Hardship, Advocates for Agricultural Subsidies

This was during a candid interview with renowned media personalities, Gbemi Olateru and Toolz.

In response to a query about the recommended frequency of intimacy for married couples, the actor attributed his voracious libido to his Calabar heritage.

Asserting his readiness for amorous encounters at any hour, Effiong declared, “I’m a Calabar man, and it means my libido is quite high. So I could be sleeping, and you can wake me up at any time for sex. I could have sex everyday.”

Benjamin Kalu Commends Nigerians’ Resilience Amid Hardship, Advocates for Agricultural Subsidies

Obasempire reports that Benjamin Kalu, the deputy speaker of the House of Representatives, underscored the resilience of Nigerians amidst economic challenges, emphasizing their capacity to endure hardship and persevere.

Read More: Deputy Speaker Addresses Lawmakers’ Salaries, Rejects Calls for Reduction

He stated this during a session on Wednesday in the lower legislative chamber. Kalu’s remarks came as he contributed to a discussion on food security.

The legislator highlighted the buoyant spirit of Nigerians despite prevailing economic adversities, noting that their resilience contributes to national happiness.

Kalu advocated for the subsidization of farm inputs to bolster the nation’s journey towards food security.

He urged governors to adopt policies that promote agriculture within their respective states, aiming to complement the federal government’s initiatives.

In his address, Kalu urged governors to align their policies with agricultural priorities, emphasizing the need for concerted efforts to bridge the gap between federal strategies and local implementation.

“It is high time you prioritise your policies and the mechanism to achieve those policies towards agriculture and food insecurity so that what the president is doing from this level of the federal government will be felt at the local level,” he said.

“If there is a need for subsidy in this country, it is to subsidise these farm inputs and everything that has to do with farming. Let‘s put our energy there.

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“We are hardworking people in Nigeria. We have been declared as one of the happiest people in the world because we can absorb hardship and keep moving.

“The governors — we urge you to prioritise the issue of agriculture.”

Kalu’s call to action resonated with an appeal to governors, urging them to prioritize agricultural development as a crucial step towards enhancing food security nationwide.

Deputy Speaker Addresses Lawmakers’ Salaries, Rejects Calls for Reduction

Obasempire reports that the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu has emphasized that the current remuneration of federal lawmakers falls short of sustaining them in executing their duties effectively.

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In a candid discussion on Channels Television’s ‘Politics Today’, on Monday, Kalu dismissed claims that the average lawmaker’s salary is extravagant, asserting that it barely meets their obligations.

He underscored the distinction between salaries and allowances, emphasizing that allowances are earmarked for constituency duties and cannot be tampered with.

“The salaries of the National Assembly are significantly lower than perceived. Even a 50% or 80% reduction would not align with the economic realities,” Kalu remarked, highlighting the challenges lawmakers face in serving their constituencies adequately.

He elaborated on the financial strains lawmakers encounter, including transportation costs, running constituency offices, and maintaining aides essential for fulfilling their mandates.

Kalu maintained that slashing salaries would not resolve the underlying issues but expressed readiness for adjustments if it enhances national progress.

He said, “Considering the cost of transport, running constituency offices and the number of maintaining aides who are supposed to have you achieve what the mandate of that office demands, it is not a discussion that will add value to the crisis we are faced with.

“But I can assure you they will be willing to adjust. If that is what will move Nigeria to the next level, why not? After all, we did not send ourselves there. We were voted in by the constituents.”

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Amid discussions on fiscal prudence, Kalu commended President Bola Tinubu for his decision to implement the 2012 recommendations of the Steve Oronsaye panel, applauding Tinubu’s commitment to effective governance.

Kalu’s remarks shed light on the complexities surrounding lawmakers’ compensation and the imperative for nuanced approaches to address legislative challenges, urging stakeholders to consider the broader context in deliberating on remuneration matters.

Nigeria Advances to Final Olympic Women’s Football Qualifiers

Obasempire reports that the Nigeria’s women’s football team, the Super Falcons, has triumphed over their West African counterparts, Cameroon, for the Olympic games.

Read More: Super Falcons Determined to Overpower Indomitable Lionesses, Says Ajibade

The Super Falcons secured a spot in the final round of qualifiers for the 2024 Olympic Games in a thrilling encounter on Monday in Abuja.

The Super Falcons will now contend against either longstanding rivals South Africa or Tanzania for a chance to compete in the prestigious event.

The decisive moment came in the 15th minute when Esther Okoronkwo netted a crucial goal at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium. Okoronkwo seized the opportunity after goalkeeper Michaely Bihina deflected Rasheedat Ajibade’s chip, giving Nigeria a vital 1-0 aggregate lead over the Lionesses.

Despite Cameroon’s relentless efforts, the Super Falcons held firm, spurred by goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie’s exceptional saves, notably thwarting Menene Meyong’s header in the 32nd minute.

In a tense second half, Bihina showcased her prowess, denying multiple attempts by Ajibade, Echegini, and Nigerian substitutes Akudo Ogbonna and Asisat Oshoala.

Nnadozie further reinforced Nigeria’s defense, notably blocking Marie Ngah Manga’s close-range effort in the 60th minute. Cameroon’s hopes dwindled as substitute Marie Enganemben received a red card, leaving them with 10 players.

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Looking ahead, Randy Waldrum’s squad eagerly anticipates the outcome of the South Africa versus Tanzania fixture, scheduled for Tuesday. South Africa currently holds a commanding 3-0 lead from the first leg in Dar es Salaam.

The final showdown for Nigeria to secure their first Olympic appearance since Beijing 2008 is set for April.