Alibaba Weighs In On Bobrisky’s EFCC Arrest

Obasempire reports that Alibaba, the Nigerian comic, has expressed his viewpoint on the apprehension of Bobrisky by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

The self-styled transgender and cross-dresser was detained on Wednesday evening in Lagos for purportedly mistreating the naira bills.

Bobrisky was seized for purportedly scattering the naira bills and defacing currency, among other charges.

In a social media post on his Instagram account, the 58-year-old comic shared an image depicting some individuals dispersing and trampling on the cash notes at an event.

The ace comedian queried if the anti-graft agency “failed to arrest them because they were men”.

He also inquired about the rationale behind Bobrisky’s arrest, adding that “it is not right”.

Alibaba implied that the EFCC is beaming its searchlight on women, arguing that the way ladies are treated in Nigeria is “not good”.

Alibaba also referred to the case of Simi Gold, the actress sentenced to six months in prison in February, adding that the “EFCC has arrested another lady (Bobrisky) for a similar offence”.

“And Bobrisky was arrested for what again? Because they are men? This is not right. The other time on a celebrity lady was sentenced for the same thing,” he wrote.

“Now, EFCC has arrested another lady for the same thing that men get away with. The way we treat women in this country is not good. Mennnnn, I just taya.”

The crossdresser has been granted bail but she has yet to meet the conditions.

Born Okuneye Idris Olanrewaju, the social media celebrity has always been in the news for controversial reasons.

She claimed to be Nigeria’s first transgender and once admitted to having severed her genitals.

In September 2021, the social media celebrity also talked about some of the perks she enjoys being a “woman”.

Government Vows To Prosecute Kidnappers Of School Children, Information Minister Announces

Obasempire reports that the Information Minister, Mohammed Idris, has announced that the Federal Government is poised to apprehend and bring to justice those responsible for the abduction of school children.

Mr. Idris made this declaration during an engagement in Kano on Wednesday, addressing media professionals and practitioners at a forum organized by the Ministry of Information and National Orientation.

He disclosed that President Tinubu had instructed security agencies to expedite efforts in ensuring the safe rescue and reunion of recently abducted school children in Kaduna with their families.

Furthermore, the minister urged journalists to refrain from sensationalizing the activities of kidnappers and bandits.

“Mr President is disturbed that journalists celebrate the activities of kidnappers and bandits on the pages of national dailies. He believes that such publicity encourages the unpatriotic elements,” he said.

He said that the Federal Government was currently putting adequate modalities in place to overhaul the agricultural sector towards ensuring food security.

He stated, “Mr President is insisting that Nigeria must be self-sufficient in food production. Proactive measures have been adopted by the Federal Government to ensure adequate provision of assorted fertiliser to farmers at subsidized dates,”

Afenifere Leader Advocates Nigeria’s Return To Parliamentary System

Obasempire reports that Ayo Adebanjo, the head of the pan-Yoruba socio-political group, Afenifere, has thrown his weight behind the proposition for Nigeria to revert to the parliamentary system of governance.

Read More: Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour: Peter Obi Not the Right Politician for Nigerians

Adebanjo contended that the presidential system of governance is excessively costly and riddled with corruption.

His stance emerged during an appearance on Arise Television, where he articulated his views passionately.

Adebanjo staunchly maintained that the presidential system transforms the president into a dictator post-election, rendering questioning of his authority obsolete.

According to him, “Those of us who’ve had experience with the parliamentary system in this country see that it’s the only way out. The presidential system is corrupt, especially in Nigeria; it makes the president a dictator.

“To question the supremacy of the president is only in operation before the election; the moment he’s elected, he becomes a dictator where no one can oppose him. His word is the law.

“Particularly in Nigeria, our constitution makes the president the most powerful in the world. The system is too expensive and corrupt. The earlier we revert, the better.

Read More: Northern Youth Group Backs Govt’s Stand Against Bandit Negotiations

“Under the parliamentary system, the prime minister becomes more responsible; he’s responsible to the parliament. By the name itself, the prime minister falls among equals. If he misbehaves, the parliament will question him because the ministers are elected members of their constituencies.

“The advantages of a parliamentary system are many. It is a welcome development that should be implemented expeditiously, and the constitution should be changed.”

Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour: Peter Obi Not The Right Politician For Nigerians

Obasempire reports that in a recent development, Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, the gubernatorial candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in Lagos state for 2023 election has voiced his reservations about the party’s choice for the presidential candidacy, Peter Obi, asserting that Obi does not align with the kind of politician Nigerians require.

Read More: Northern Youth Group Backs Govt’s Stand Against Bandit Negotiations

Rhodes-Vivour conveyed this sentiment during an appearance on the Honest Bunch Podcast.

In a snippet circulated across online platforms, the LP stalwart indicated that the former Governor of Anambra State might possess the qualities of a leader Nigeria requires; however, he falls short of embodying the quintessential politician. “we need for us”.

He said, “Peter Obi is the leader that we need for Nigeria, but not the politician we need for us.”

Rhodes-Vivour also insisted, “Peter (Obi) does not buy votes. He won Lagos without buying votes.”

Netizens Taunt Rexxie With ‘Call Wizzy’ Amid Arrest In Uganda

Obasempire reports that renowned Nigerian music producer Ezeh Chisom, professionally known as Rexxie, has appealed for assistance following his detention by Ugandan immigration authorities.

Read More: Kizz Daniel Opens Up: Sobriety Hinders My Music Recording

In a plea posted on his Instagram page on March 11, Rexxie denounced his arrest as unjust and called for his prompt release.

The news sparked a flurry of reactions among online users.

While some individuals queried whether Rexxie was in possession of contraband substances, others suggested enlisting the support of popular Afrobeats icon Ayo Balogun, widely recognized as Wizkid, to intervene on his behalf.

Some social media users have reacted to the singer’s arrest.

See some of their comments below:

@celebrity__mechanic: “Abi kin kpe Wizzy oya call Wizkid.”

@lanre_pablo: “Se you carry powder?”

@abjokescomedian: “When you go Uganda, you tell us?”

@jamesgibson5209000: “Which one of the borders?”

@horlar_jide_: “Give their Oga phone, let me talk to him.”

@itslaycrown: “Which country is Uganda first?”

@ivsexchange: “Wetin carry you go Uganda?”

@jagaban075: “Wetin you self go do there?”

@ricowhitenyc: “Something like this happened to a female singer I know.”

@insigniabeauty_pro: “New song about to drop.”

@officiall_maverick: “Na wah for this country dem arrest our artist. Una dey use am catch cruise.”

@therealblizzy6: “Why this uganda all the time same thing Omah lay and Tems thus this thing no funny at all o.

Nigerian Presidency Dismisses Notions Of Aso-rock ‘Cabal’

Obasempire reports that rumors of a potent ‘cabal’ amassing power in Aso-rock to seize control of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration have been quashed by the Nigerian Presidency.

Read More: Presidency Denies Senator’s Claims Regarding 2024 Budget

During an appearance on TVC Politics on Sunday, Ajuri Ngelale, a media aide to the President, revealed that no individual or group could wield authority over the President’s decisions.

Ngelale clarified that the President had structured his government to prevent any single official or faction from exerting undue influence capable of hijacking governance.

He stated, “We are fortunate to have elected not just a professional accountant, but a professional auditor who comprehensively understands governance mechanisms, not only at the federal but also at the sub-national level.

No individual in the Presidency monopolizes what the President sees, hears, and reads. This intentional setup ensures that no one wields such power.”

“He maintains open communication with heads of intelligence agencies, anti-graft agencies, and others,” Ngelale continued, emphasizing the President’s accessibility to those who require it.

Ngelale highlighted the reputation of the current CBN Governor, Mr. Olayemi Cardoso, known globally for his prudent management of resources.

President Tinubu deliberately appointed such individuals to maintain fiscal discipline.

Read More: Northern Youth Group Backs Govt’s Stand Against Bandit Negotiations

Furthermore, Ngelale underscored the President’s commitment to instituting safeguards against past irregularities, including legislative changes to prevent future occurrences.

“He’s determined to close loopholes, just as he did in Lagos State years ago,” Ngelale asserted, emphasizing President Tinubu’s background as an auditor and accountant.

The Presidency’s firm stance aims to thwart elite conspiracies and ensure accountability in governance, signaling a robust commitment to transparent and effective leadership.

Northern Youth Group Backs Govt’s Stand Against Bandit Negotiations

Obasempire reports that the Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF), representing various youth bodies in the north, has thrown its weight behind the government’s refusal to engage in talks with bandits.

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

Following the kidnapping of 287 students and educators from Kuriga Government Secondary and LEA Primary Schools in Kaduna State, the AYCF wants no negotiation with the criminals.

Alhaji Yerima Shettima, the President General of AYCF, denounced the abduction and called on security agencies to exert maximum effort to secure the safe release of the students and teachers.

Addressing journalists recently, Shettima expressed shock at the brazenness of the kidnapping and stressed the necessity for the federal government to adhere to established military protocols in securing the release of the abducted individuals without compromise.

“We strongly oppose negotiating with criminals; there should be no dialogue with bandits as it only strengthens their resolve to perpetrate criminal acts,” Shettima asserted.

In response to rumors of the government contemplating hiring a private mediator, Shettima stressed the significance of having faith in the government’s actions and decisions regarding the abduction.

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

He reaffirmed AYCF’s trust in the government’s stance against negotiating with criminals.Meanwhile, apprehensions have mounted as 72 hours have elapsed since the abduction with no tangible progress in the rescue efforts for the students and teachers.

He reiterated the pressing nature of the situation, urging the government to uphold its commitment to spare no effort in promptly rescuing the abducted individuals.

Concluding his remarks, the AYCF president called on Nigerians to intensify prayers against the worsening insecurity in the country, particularly the targeting of educational institutions.

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

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.

Read More: Customs Halts Food Sales After Deadly Incident

“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.

Read More: Customs Halts Food Sales After Deadly Incident

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.”

Read More: Police Deploy Anti-Riot Units Ahead of Nationwide Protest

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.