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Oluchi Orlandi Shows Of Hot Bikini Body In Vacation Photo

Nigerian supermodel, Oluchi Orlandi, is currently vacationing with her two boys and she flaunted her sexy body for all to see. Just take a look at that flat belly, after two kids!!
 

Jonathan daughter’s wedding: Bayelsa residents lament roads closure

Residents of Yenagoa metropolis in Bayelsa State are groaning over the closure of some roads and attendant heavy traffic ahead of President Goodluck Jonathan’s adopted daughter’s traditional marriage on Saturday.
Already, security has been beefed up by soldiers, police and other security personnel in the state.
Wife of the President, Dame Patience Jonathan, arrived the state about two days ago, while Jonathan is expected to step into the state today, Friday.
Dignitaries from all walks of life, including top government functionaries and politicians, have been arriving the state for the ceremony.
Some roads leading to Jonathan’s private residence along Kpansia in the state capital have been closed to traffic, forcing motorists to make a detour and follow longer routes to access their destinations.
Checks by our correspondent revealed that the closure of some roads had resulted in gridlock in some parts of the city as motorists groan.
It was learnt that the state government had already ordered the temporary closure of the popular Saturday market at Kpansia.
Traders from neighbouring states who usually convey their goods to the market through the Sani Abacha road have been compelled to take obscure roads.
Some traders decried the closures as ill-advised.
A trader, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said it was unthinkable to put activities in the communit at a standstill, because of wedding of one person.
“Closing some strategic roads because of the wedding is ill-advised. They should have devised a much better approach to managing the situation. The situation is not good enough,” she said.

Jonathan daughter’s wedding: Bayelsa residents lament roads closure

Residents of Yenagoa metropolis in Bayelsa State are groaning over the closure of some roads and attendant heavy traffic ahead of President Goodluck Jonathan’s adopted daughter’s traditional marriage on Saturday.
Already, security has been beefed up by soldiers, police and other security personnel in the state.
Wife of the President, Dame Patience Jonathan, arrived the state about two days ago, while Jonathan is expected to step into the state today, Friday.
Dignitaries from all walks of life, including top government functionaries and politicians, have been arriving the state for the ceremony.
Some roads leading to Jonathan’s private residence along Kpansia in the state capital have been closed to traffic, forcing motorists to make a detour and follow longer routes to access their destinations.
Checks by our correspondent revealed that the closure of some roads had resulted in gridlock in some parts of the city as motorists groan.
It was learnt that the state government had already ordered the temporary closure of the popular Saturday market at Kpansia.
Traders from neighbouring states who usually convey their goods to the market through the Sani Abacha road have been compelled to take obscure roads.
Some traders decried the closures as ill-advised.
A trader, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said it was unthinkable to put activities in the communit at a standstill, because of wedding of one person.
“Closing some strategic roads because of the wedding is ill-advised. They should have devised a much better approach to managing the situation. The situation is not good enough,” she said.

I avoid trouble – Timi Dakolo

 

Timi Dakolo
| credits: File copy

Timi Dakolo has come a long way since emerging winner in the maiden edition of Idols West Africa. In this interview, he details the progress that has been associated with his career

 Was a music career something you envisaged or it happened by chance?

I had always loved music growing up, always listened to music and enjoyed it. I joined singing in groups and sang in our church choir but honestly, music as a career, happened by chance because I didn’t see this one coming. It was not something I envisaged.

 Asides music, what other dreams did you have growing up?

Like every other child, I dreamt of doing great things. I dreamt of touching lives and wowing people without necessarily knowing how I was going to achieve these aspirations but somehow it has come to be. I necessarily didn’t know what it was but I knew I wanted to be great.

 How would you classify your music since some people don’t know whether to call you a gospel or inspirational musician?

I am neither a gospel artiste nor an inspirational artiste. I just do music and my kind of music is not tied to any genre. I do music, whichever way I am inspired to and that has always been my style.

 Save for IdolsWest Africa, do you think you would have come this far?

I really can’t tell. Maybe I probably would not have gotten into music. I guess it was a well orchestrated plan by God, set in motion by Him, realised by Him and for which I am grateful.

 What’s the difference between Timi Dakolo of  Idols West Africa  and Timi Dakolo of today?

I have grown a lot in every sense of the word. I have learnt my trade and believe I am still learning. As you can testify to, in life, you never quit learning. I know much more now than I did before, hence, I have learnt to avoid certain mistakes.

 How has the journey been so far?

They say the beautiful part of life is not the destination but the journey. I have enjoyed and picked up lessons while on it. It’s been awesome and it’s still awesome.

 What were some of the obstacles you encountered on your way up?

Explaining to people why I am devoted to the kind of music I do. A lot of people did not understand and I hope they do now.

 Are you where you want to be?

Not at all! I don’t see success as a destination, I have only just started.

 How do you manage your celebrity status?

I am just me and I remain me. I try very hard to stay out of trouble as well. Being a celebrity is not an excuse for misdemeanour. A lot of people constantly look up to you as a role model. You can’t be letting your fans down.

 Your sophomore album has been a long time coming. What is the reason for its delay?

It’s being worked on and nearing its finishing stages actually. I put in a lot of work into my music and I always want it to be a collector’s item. I want it to be something you will cherish years after you first bought it. I’ve been taking my time, working with the best but it would be out sooner than soon!

 What inspires your compositions?

Life generally. There is so much about life to talk and sing about. Look around you and you will find them.

 Do you write and produce your music?

Most of the time I write. The   tunes come to me randomly and I put it down as it comes. There are times it wakes me up in the middle of the night. I also write with friends too; I don’t produce but I know exactly how I want my song to sound. Having a foreknowledge helps when I am putting the song together.

 What’s the story behind your newly released single Iyawo Mi?

Like the title aptly describes it, it’s about my love for my wife and all that she has made me accomplish, how she makes me feel. An awesome woman she is. She has been the wind beneath my sail and that is what I sang about in that song. If you have an awesome woman as a wife, appreciate her.

 How did you meet your wife and what qualities attracted you to her?

I met her in church, walked up to her and asked for her number, which began the journey we are still on, a great journey. Her qualities are simplicity and an ability to give me awesome advice.

 You bought your wife a house as Valentine’s Day gift. What motivated that choice of a gift?

This thing don cause wahala oh! (sic) I’d rather not comment about it.

 Why did you get married when you did? Some people thought you would have tarried a bit  

I knew it was time, and it has turned out to be my best decision.

 In what ways has marriage and fatherhood changed you?

It has made me more focused and I have more responsibilities.

 How do you combine your career with being a father and a husband?

Everything has its place, I try my best to give my time to both…its hard sometimes but to me, family comes first always.

 Who are your greatest musical influences?

Where do I begin from?  I love and I’m influenced by absolutely good music.

 Your image is clean-cut and sexy, is this you or a ploy to appeal to your fan base?

That is me. Clean-cut always. If you say sexy, I would not argue. Thank you.

 You have not caught been caught in the endorsement fever. Are you bothered?

No, I am not.

 What would you consider your greatest career breakthrough?

Great moments – I have a list! But the most recent was performing at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland.

 Some people like to describe you as a late bloomer. Do you agree?

I don’t think I am a late bloomer, I may be a perfectionist in a way but I think I’m more a careful traveller on the journey.

 Your style has evolved. How do you like to dress?

   I love suits – everyone knows that. If suits were allowed to the pool or the beach I would be dressed to the nines in my suit.

Dad would have supported my music — Waliyah Abiola

Waliyah Abiola

Waliyah Abiola, one of the daughters of the late MKO Abiola, is a music artiste. In her late 20s, she talks about her career

You studied sciences, how come you ended up in music?

I studied sciences, then Chemical Engineering in which I have a master’s degree in Engineering from Imperial College, London. But I’ve always been good at writing, literature and music. As I got older, I didn’t feel my life was complete if I didn’t explore my musical/creative side and that was how it all began. I am an artiste but I still play at banking.

How did the journey to music start?

Since I was a teenager, I have had a flair for music. But I never thought anything of it.  It didn’t occur to me that Nigerian girls could be singers. I thought it was something only African American girls did. I only started looking into music seriously about five years ago. I just felt a need to be up all night writing songs and decided it was time to go to a studio and record something. The progress was slow. I did it on odd weekends when things weren’t too hectic at the investment bank where I worked. It’s been my favourite companion, hobby and pastime ever since. I am already successful in another career (banking) and I am only doing this because I love it.

Did your family accept this?

They were not very receptive. It’s something a lot of creative people go through if you come from a conservative family. In Africa, we value education and parents want the best for us. They want us to be in stable, low-risk professional careers. Ultimately, you would be allowed to live your life on your own terms if you make a good life for yourself. Any concerns will be baseless if backed up with success.

Were your father to be alive, would he have supported this?

I think my father, the late MKO Abiola, would have supported me and would have been quite tickled by the whole thing. He loved proverbs and music; therefore, what I am doing is not strange. He loved to sing and was in a band. He often sang at weddings and as a school boy in Abeokuta. I have fond memories of him singing, “The Beatles” songs in the kitchen. This must have been a relic from the time when he  was studying to become an accountant in Scotland. I am not relying on my family name to gain acceptance. Many people have known me on the music circuit for a year now and don’t even know my family background. It is something I never bring up and this is the first time I’m discussing it in an interview. I am proud of whom I am but as I don’t want to trade on it, I simply never mention it. I’m not very comfortable discussing it, even now.

You don’t want to use an alias?

There is always the temptation to use an alias. It keeps the person and the artiste as two separate entities and it’s easier to step into character. For me, a specific alias didn’t come to mind and if something doesn’t come to me naturally, I just leave it. I am happy to use my real name.

Why did you decide to relocate to Nigeria?

I started coming home a bit more on holidays and on mentioning to the odd family friend or person that I did music, I got such a positive reception. People were interested in hearing what I had written and I wondered why I didn’t look into doing music in Nigeria sooner than I did. I’m bonding more with home, meeting so many talented people here and I believe I have something unique to offer.

How will you describe your genre of music?

I don’t have a specific genre of music. I just do whatever comes to   mind. The tempo or instrumental may be different but it’s the same Waliyah applying herself to a song. These things are just labels used by myself and others as a way of letting you know what to expect from a specific recording.

The competition is stiff here…

We will see how it goes. Hopefully, as we go along, the music audience will take to me. You can only do your best and then it becomes a case of supply and demand.

How do you view the Nigerian music scene?

It is a mixed bag. Our actual content and music execution is world class but the process that supports the distribution and exploitation of that content is understandably not as sophisticated as it should be. We are still early in the journey and that evolution will hopefully happen.  Lots of music executives are doing excellent jobs bearing in mind that many corporate organisations are reluctant to invest in the music industry.

Have you faced challenges?

There are few opportunities to launch yourself, since you are not known, but the catch is, how can you then prove yourself? That’s just the way life works and I guess it’s about paying your dues and staying diligent. If you keep pushing and you are good enough and it’s your destiny, then it will come together. If not, then you will remain one of the millions of up and coming artistes out there. It is the boulevard of broken dreams for millions of people. In all things, the toughest part is starting out and trying to gain a foothold. It’s a bit like launching a rocket, almost all the fuel is expended in launching into orbit and from then it’s free fall and maintenance of your course.

Already, you have your label?

Having my own label was an obvious thing to do. I have a brain, some business and entrepreneurship knowledge. I’m not just a chic singer hopping around, I have substance. It made sense to do my own thing first and then see where it will take me to. I am on the lookout for finding collaborators or another label that can take care of me and my needs as well as I can.

How far have you gone with your debut album?

It will be released within the next year. I already have half an album’s worth of material as well as an album of my UK-based work. My new single, Siwaju, was produced by Sarz.

Are there musical influences?

I like contemporary music – Afro pop, American music, UK music of any genre; soul, pop, country, rock, Indie pop, you name it. I also like world music, for example, Arab, Asian, Turkish music and hope to apply some of these in my music as I go along.  My compositions are inspired by anything and everything. Often, I try to make the music I want to hear and perhaps that which no one else has made.

How do you unwind?

I like to catch up on current affairs, news, politics and movies as well as spend time with friends. I also love to travel and I am blessed to have been to a lot of places. It’s mentally stimulating and gives you a fresh perspective each time you come back. I’ve ticked a lot of places off the list but Turkey, Greece, Egypt and Japan will be good sometime in the future.

What does style means to you?

Style is ideally a reflection of our personality and mindset. It can be such a joy and means of artistic expression especially for women.  I like to be comfortable but elegant. It varies but depends on mood and phase. I’m currently heading towards a “less is more” style. I feel less of a need to always wear bright colours or sequins all the time. I think it’s about confidence and letting your real self come through. Whatever outfit serves as a good frame, wins my vote.

Sanusi files suit to stop FRC investigation

A Federal High Court in Lagos on Friday fixed April 11 to hear a suit filed by Mallam Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, seeking to halt investigation into his tenure by the Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria.
Sanusi, the suspended Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, had filed the suit through his counsel, Mr Kola Awodehin (SAN).
He is seeking a declaration that the FRC constituting itself into an investigating body in a manner contained in some newspaper publications of March 24 is ultra vires in its powers.
Sanusi joined the FRC and the Executive Secretary of the FRC as the first and second defendants.
Sanusi is seeking a declaration that the conduct, actions and decision of the defendant were ultra vires.
He averred that the FRC’s declaration in a briefing note dated June 7, 2013 and submitted to the President were ultra vires in their powers as contained in the FRC Act, 2011.
He also wants a declaration that the defendant, having reached a conclusion as to his culpability as CBN governor, indicated in the briefing note can no longer conduct any investigation on the same matter.
A declaration that the defendant’s recommendation regarding the plaintiff in briefing note date June 7, 2013 that he having been removed from office as CBN governor, were ultra vires under the FRC Act 2011.
Sanusi, therefore, sought an order restraining the defendants or any person, body, agent, or privies, under its authority, or pursuant to the FRC Act, from conducting and continuing with investigation or inquiry as advertised.
The defence filed a preliminary objection, challenging the jurisdiction of the court to hear the suit.
In a short ruling, Justice James Tsoho, said that he would hear the defendant’s objection and the plaintiff’s motion together.
Tsoho, however, ordered that the status quo should be maintained until the suit was determined.
“It is hereby ordered that status quo as at the time of instituting this suit should be maintained until it is determined,” he said.
He adjourned the case to April 11 for hearing.

Dancehall Act, Vybz Kartel Sentenced To Life In Prison For Murder

Dancehall Act, Vybz Kartel Sentenced To Life In Prison For Murder  

We may have heard the last of the legendary singer Vybz Kartel. Today (April 3rd), Kartel was sentence to life in prison for the murder of his former associate Clive “Lizard” Williams.
This was the longest murder trial in Jamaica’s history and prosecutors say Williams was murdered after a failed business deal. Vybz Kartel, who was convicted of the murder last month was also prevented from having parole for 35 years as apart of his life sentence handed down by Supreme Court Justice Lennox Campbell.
Shawn “Shawn Storm” Campbell, Kahira Jones and Andre St John were also given life sentences in connection to Williams’ murder. Williams body was never found and the jury voted 10-1 to convict the four people. The one juror who voted against the decision has since been charged with attempting to bribe other jurors into changing their decisions.
Clive Williams was murdered in August of 2011, the same month Vybz Kartel released Kingston Story.

Photos: Iyanya unveils new look in new video shoot

Photos: Iyanya unveils new look in new video shoot

Iyanya was in London a few days ago to shoot the video for his massive hit 'Away' and he unveiled his new look in the shoot. He's now sporting a beard. Still handsome. Continue to see more photos from behind the scenes of the video shot by Sesan Ogunro....

DSS to appeal Court judgment ordering FG, Police to pay Sanusi N50m damages

on April 04, 2014   /   in Headlines 12:00 am   /   Comments

By Soni Daniel, Innocent Anaba, Ikechukwu Nnochiri, Dapo Akinrefon & Chris Ochayi
LAGOS — Suspended Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, Mallam Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, yesterday, secured a major victory in his legal battle against the Federal Government as a Federal High Court sitting in Lagos, declared as unlawful, his arrest and seizure of his international passport on February 20.
The court in a judgment delivered by Justice Ibrahim Buba on the suit filed by Sanusi for the enforcement of his fundamental rights also awarded him N50 million as damages. The court further ordered the Federal Government to tender a public apology to him.

Mallam Sanusi Lamido Sanusi

Respondents in the suit were the Attorney-General of the Federation, Inspector-General of Police and Department of State Services, DSS.

DSS to appeal  judgment

Meanwhile, the Department of State Services, DSS, had served notice last night that it was appealing the judgment.
Deputy Director, Public Relations of DSS, Marilyn Ogar, confirmed the decision of the security agency to Vanguard.
“We are appealing the judgment immediately,” Ogar said but did not give details.
Earlier, the Police had said that they would not comment on it until it got the certified true copy of the verdict.
Force PRO, Mr Frank Mbah, said that the force was unaware of the judgment as at press time.

Preliminary  objection

The court first ruled on the preliminary objection by the Attorney-General of the Federation, challenging the jurisdiction of the court to entertain the suit, which it dismissed.
The AGF had argued that the suit was wrongly instituted before the Federal High Court since the matter bordered on the employment of the applicant and so, should be within the exclusive jurisdiction of the National Industrial Court.
Dismissing the objection, the court held that the provisions of Section 11 of the Labour Act, cannot take away the jurisdiction bestowed on the Federal High Court by the Constitution, noting that the provisions of Section 251 of the constitution vest jurisdiction on the Federal High Court, to entertain matters touching on enforcement of fundamental human rights.
The court said the applicant had brought the suit under the provisions of Chapter 4 of the Constitution, seeking an enforcement of his rights, and so, is not a dispute relating to his terms of employment.
According to the court, “the averment by respondent that the matter is labour related is far from the truth. The first respondent is trying to set up another case for the applicant. It is a case of ‘shifting the goal post’ and making a case for the applicant.
“The fact deposed in the applicant’s originating summons and his affidavit speaks for itself. It is a suit for enforcement of his fundamental right which is recognisable by the Federal High Court. The court allows any person who perceives that his rights are likely to be infringed on to approach the court for redress.”
The court consequently dismissed the preliminary objection and held that it had the jurisdiction to hear and determine the applicant’s suit.

Respondents fail to answer questions raised

On the main suit, the court held that from the totality of averments in the applicant’s originating summons, there was no doubt that the respondents had failed to answer all the questions raised.

COUNSELS TO FORMER GOV. SANUSI LAMIDO SANUSI OF CENTRAL BANK OF NIGERIA, MRS VICTORIA ALONGE (L) AND MR BASHIR RAHIM, DISCUSSING AFTER HEARING OF THE SUIT FILED AGAINST POLICE AND DSS, AT THE FEDERAL HIGH COURT IN IKOYI, LAGOS, ON THURSDAY (3/4/14).

The court noted that the first and third respondents presented conflicting averments in their counter affidavits, which shows that they were not on the same page on the issue and had acted in bad faith.
The court declared: “The averment of the second respondent is frugal, as it stated clearly that they had not been briefed by anyone to investigate or arrest the applicant.
“The first respondent laboured to submit that the applicant was not entitled to a grant of perpetual injunction, but this court is of the opinion that for every infraction, the applicant is entitled to a relief.
“This court believes that the action of the respondents in this suit, deserves condemnation and exemplary damages. This court has no doubt that the applicant has made out his case against the respondents, and so, resolve all the issues in favour of the applicant.
“For the avoidance of doubt, the court makes the following declaratory orders:
“A declaration that the first respondent acting through the officers of the third respondent or its privies, does not have any power to forcefully withdraw and keep the passport of the applicant for any reason whatsoever.
“A declaration that the respondent does not have any power to forcefully withdraw and seize the passport of the applicant without compliance with section 5 (1) of the Passport Miscellanous Provisions Act 2004.
“A declaration that the forceful seizure and detention of applicant’s passport, is an unlawful violation of his right to freedom of movement, enshrined in section 35 of the 1999 Constitution and article 12 of the Charter on Human and Peoples Right Act.
“A declaration that the conduct of respondents acting through the officers of the DSS, in forcefully arresting the applicant without due allegation or suspicion of a crime, is an unlawful violation of his right to personal liberty.
“An order of this court is hereby made restraining the respondent, their agents, privies or any other law enforcement agency of the respondents, from further interfering, harassing or infringing on the personal liberty of the applicant.
“An order for immediate release to the applicant of his international passport forcefully withdrawn and seized on February 20, is hereby made. Having granted a restraining order, the order of perpetual injunction cannot be granted because for every infringement, the applicant has a right to come to court.
“An exemplary damages against the respondents jointly and severally is also awarded in the sum of N50 million only.
“An order is also made directing the respondent to make a public apology to the applicant for unlawful arrest, detention and harassment.”

Commendations greet judgment

Meanwhile, commendations across the country yesterday greeted the court judgment
Reacting to the judgment, a member of the inner bar, Mr Sebastian Hon, SAN said: “The Supreme Court had in the case of Director of SSS vs Agbakoba, held that it is wrong for security agencies to impound anybody’s international passport because it infringes on the person’s right of freedom of movement which is guaranteed by the constitution.
“I believe that the Federal High Court in Lagos must have drawn strength from that judgment. Mind you, the award of the N50 million damages may not actually be because he was detained or interrogated few hours by security agents, but because of the continued withholding of his passport.
Another Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Jubril Okutekpa, said: “The issue of seizure of passport was settled in the case of Agbakoba vs the SSS. We are not in a military regime. Judges have been authorized by the constitution to give judgment irrespective of whose ox is gored. We must commend the judge for being bold enough to interpret the constitution as it is.
“The constitution guarantees freedom of movement to every citizen. How can that be possible if security operatives seize people’s passports on mere ground that it is investigating one allegation or the other?”
In his reaction, Yunus Ustaz Usman, SAN said: “I have not read the judgment so it will not be fair for me to start criticizing it deeply at this time. However, I hold the view that Nigeria is not under a military rule. Therefore, the constitution and its provisions remain sacrosanct.”
Human rights crusader, Mr Bamidele Aturu, in his reaction commended the judgment but expressed worry that the Federal Government may not learn any lesson from the episode.
Aturu said: “I hope that will teach the Federal Government a lesson not to violate peoples’ rights. If they violate peoples’ right and they go to court, then the court will act to defend citizens’ right.
“That is what I can say about the judgement. It should be a lesson to them not infringe on peoples’ right but I know that at the end of the day, government does not learn any lesson but I hope they will learn from this.”

CNPP applauds  ruling

The Conference of Nigeria Political Parties, CNPP, also applauded the judgment. Reacting to the court verdict, via telephone conversation with Vanguard in Abuja, National Publicity Secretary of CNPP, Mr. Osita Okechukwu, said the verdict was a victory for rule of law.
He said: “It is a good judgment and welcome development.”

- See more at: http://www.vanguardngr.com/2014/04/dss-appeal-court-judgment-ordering-fg-police-pay-sanusi-n50m-damages/#sthash.7yxMvm2J.dpuf

DSS to appeal Court judgment ordering FG, Police to pay Sanusi N50m damages

on April 04, 2014   /   in Headlines 12:00 am   /   Comments

By Soni Daniel, Innocent Anaba, Ikechukwu Nnochiri, Dapo Akinrefon & Chris Ochayi
LAGOS — Suspended Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, Mallam Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, yesterday, secured a major victory in his legal battle against the Federal Government as a Federal High Court sitting in Lagos, declared as unlawful, his arrest and seizure of his international passport on February 20.
The court in a judgment delivered by Justice Ibrahim Buba on the suit filed by Sanusi for the enforcement of his fundamental rights also awarded him N50 million as damages. The court further ordered the Federal Government to tender a public apology to him.

Mallam Sanusi Lamido Sanusi

Respondents in the suit were the Attorney-General of the Federation, Inspector-General of Police and Department of State Services, DSS.

DSS to appeal  judgment

Meanwhile, the Department of State Services, DSS, had served notice last night that it was appealing the judgment.
Deputy Director, Public Relations of DSS, Marilyn Ogar, confirmed the decision of the security agency to Vanguard.
“We are appealing the judgment immediately,” Ogar said but did not give details.
Earlier, the Police had said that they would not comment on it until it got the certified true copy of the verdict.
Force PRO, Mr Frank Mbah, said that the force was unaware of the judgment as at press time.

Preliminary  objection

The court first ruled on the preliminary objection by the Attorney-General of the Federation, challenging the jurisdiction of the court to entertain the suit, which it dismissed.
The AGF had argued that the suit was wrongly instituted before the Federal High Court since the matter bordered on the employment of the applicant and so, should be within the exclusive jurisdiction of the National Industrial Court.
Dismissing the objection, the court held that the provisions of Section 11 of the Labour Act, cannot take away the jurisdiction bestowed on the Federal High Court by the Constitution, noting that the provisions of Section 251 of the constitution vest jurisdiction on the Federal High Court, to entertain matters touching on enforcement of fundamental human rights.
The court said the applicant had brought the suit under the provisions of Chapter 4 of the Constitution, seeking an enforcement of his rights, and so, is not a dispute relating to his terms of employment.
According to the court, “the averment by respondent that the matter is labour related is far from the truth. The first respondent is trying to set up another case for the applicant. It is a case of ‘shifting the goal post’ and making a case for the applicant.
“The fact deposed in the applicant’s originating summons and his affidavit speaks for itself. It is a suit for enforcement of his fundamental right which is recognisable by the Federal High Court. The court allows any person who perceives that his rights are likely to be infringed on to approach the court for redress.”
The court consequently dismissed the preliminary objection and held that it had the jurisdiction to hear and determine the applicant’s suit.

Respondents fail to answer questions raised

On the main suit, the court held that from the totality of averments in the applicant’s originating summons, there was no doubt that the respondents had failed to answer all the questions raised.

COUNSELS TO FORMER GOV. SANUSI LAMIDO SANUSI OF CENTRAL BANK OF NIGERIA, MRS VICTORIA ALONGE (L) AND MR BASHIR RAHIM, DISCUSSING AFTER HEARING OF THE SUIT FILED AGAINST POLICE AND DSS, AT THE FEDERAL HIGH COURT IN IKOYI, LAGOS, ON THURSDAY (3/4/14).

The court noted that the first and third respondents presented conflicting averments in their counter affidavits, which shows that they were not on the same page on the issue and had acted in bad faith.
The court declared: “The averment of the second respondent is frugal, as it stated clearly that they had not been briefed by anyone to investigate or arrest the applicant.
“The first respondent laboured to submit that the applicant was not entitled to a grant of perpetual injunction, but this court is of the opinion that for every infraction, the applicant is entitled to a relief.
“This court believes that the action of the respondents in this suit, deserves condemnation and exemplary damages. This court has no doubt that the applicant has made out his case against the respondents, and so, resolve all the issues in favour of the applicant.
“For the avoidance of doubt, the court makes the following declaratory orders:
“A declaration that the first respondent acting through the officers of the third respondent or its privies, does not have any power to forcefully withdraw and keep the passport of the applicant for any reason whatsoever.
“A declaration that the respondent does not have any power to forcefully withdraw and seize the passport of the applicant without compliance with section 5 (1) of the Passport Miscellanous Provisions Act 2004.
“A declaration that the forceful seizure and detention of applicant’s passport, is an unlawful violation of his right to freedom of movement, enshrined in section 35 of the 1999 Constitution and article 12 of the Charter on Human and Peoples Right Act.
“A declaration that the conduct of respondents acting through the officers of the DSS, in forcefully arresting the applicant without due allegation or suspicion of a crime, is an unlawful violation of his right to personal liberty.
“An order of this court is hereby made restraining the respondent, their agents, privies or any other law enforcement agency of the respondents, from further interfering, harassing or infringing on the personal liberty of the applicant.
“An order for immediate release to the applicant of his international passport forcefully withdrawn and seized on February 20, is hereby made. Having granted a restraining order, the order of perpetual injunction cannot be granted because for every infringement, the applicant has a right to come to court.
“An exemplary damages against the respondents jointly and severally is also awarded in the sum of N50 million only.
“An order is also made directing the respondent to make a public apology to the applicant for unlawful arrest, detention and harassment.”

Commendations greet judgment

Meanwhile, commendations across the country yesterday greeted the court judgment
Reacting to the judgment, a member of the inner bar, Mr Sebastian Hon, SAN said: “The Supreme Court had in the case of Director of SSS vs Agbakoba, held that it is wrong for security agencies to impound anybody’s international passport because it infringes on the person’s right of freedom of movement which is guaranteed by the constitution.
“I believe that the Federal High Court in Lagos must have drawn strength from that judgment. Mind you, the award of the N50 million damages may not actually be because he was detained or interrogated few hours by security agents, but because of the continued withholding of his passport.
Another Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Jubril Okutekpa, said: “The issue of seizure of passport was settled in the case of Agbakoba vs the SSS. We are not in a military regime. Judges have been authorized by the constitution to give judgment irrespective of whose ox is gored. We must commend the judge for being bold enough to interpret the constitution as it is.
“The constitution guarantees freedom of movement to every citizen. How can that be possible if security operatives seize people’s passports on mere ground that it is investigating one allegation or the other?”
In his reaction, Yunus Ustaz Usman, SAN said: “I have not read the judgment so it will not be fair for me to start criticizing it deeply at this time. However, I hold the view that Nigeria is not under a military rule. Therefore, the constitution and its provisions remain sacrosanct.”
Human rights crusader, Mr Bamidele Aturu, in his reaction commended the judgment but expressed worry that the Federal Government may not learn any lesson from the episode.
Aturu said: “I hope that will teach the Federal Government a lesson not to violate peoples’ rights. If they violate peoples’ right and they go to court, then the court will act to defend citizens’ right.
“That is what I can say about the judgement. It should be a lesson to them not infringe on peoples’ right but I know that at the end of the day, government does not learn any lesson but I hope they will learn from this.”

CNPP applauds  ruling

The Conference of Nigeria Political Parties, CNPP, also applauded the judgment. Reacting to the court verdict, via telephone conversation with Vanguard in Abuja, National Publicity Secretary of CNPP, Mr. Osita Okechukwu, said the verdict was a victory for rule of law.
He said: “It is a good judgment and welcome development.”

- See more at: http://www.vanguardngr.com/2014/04/dss-appeal-court-judgment-ordering-fg-police-pay-sanusi-n50m-damages/#sthash.7yxMvm2J.dpuf

DSS to appeal Court judgment ordering FG, Police to pay Sanusi N50m damages

on April 04, 2014   /   in Headlines 12:00 am   /   Comments

By Soni Daniel, Innocent Anaba, Ikechukwu Nnochiri, Dapo Akinrefon & Chris Ochayi
LAGOS — Suspended Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, Mallam Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, yesterday, secured a major victory in his legal battle against the Federal Government as a Federal High Court sitting in Lagos, declared as unlawful, his arrest and seizure of his international passport on February 20.
The court in a judgment delivered by Justice Ibrahim Buba on the suit filed by Sanusi for the enforcement of his fundamental rights also awarded him N50 million as damages. The court further ordered the Federal Government to tender a public apology to him.

Mallam Sanusi Lamido Sanusi

Respondents in the suit were the Attorney-General of the Federation, Inspector-General of Police and Department of State Services, DSS.

DSS to appeal  judgment

Meanwhile, the Department of State Services, DSS, had served notice last night that it was appealing the judgment.
Deputy Director, Public Relations of DSS, Marilyn Ogar, confirmed the decision of the security agency to Vanguard.
“We are appealing the judgment immediately,” Ogar said but did not give details.
Earlier, the Police had said that they would not comment on it until it got the certified true copy of the verdict.
Force PRO, Mr Frank Mbah, said that the force was unaware of the judgment as at press time.

Preliminary  objection

The court first ruled on the preliminary objection by the Attorney-General of the Federation, challenging the jurisdiction of the court to entertain the suit, which it dismissed.
The AGF had argued that the suit was wrongly instituted before the Federal High Court since the matter bordered on the employment of the applicant and so, should be within the exclusive jurisdiction of the National Industrial Court.
Dismissing the objection, the court held that the provisions of Section 11 of the Labour Act, cannot take away the jurisdiction bestowed on the Federal High Court by the Constitution, noting that the provisions of Section 251 of the constitution vest jurisdiction on the Federal High Court, to entertain matters touching on enforcement of fundamental human rights.
The court said the applicant had brought the suit under the provisions of Chapter 4 of the Constitution, seeking an enforcement of his rights, and so, is not a dispute relating to his terms of employment.
According to the court, “the averment by respondent that the matter is labour related is far from the truth. The first respondent is trying to set up another case for the applicant. It is a case of ‘shifting the goal post’ and making a case for the applicant.
“The fact deposed in the applicant’s originating summons and his affidavit speaks for itself. It is a suit for enforcement of his fundamental right which is recognisable by the Federal High Court. The court allows any person who perceives that his rights are likely to be infringed on to approach the court for redress.”
The court consequently dismissed the preliminary objection and held that it had the jurisdiction to hear and determine the applicant’s suit.

Respondents fail to answer questions raised

On the main suit, the court held that from the totality of averments in the applicant’s originating summons, there was no doubt that the respondents had failed to answer all the questions raised.

COUNSELS TO FORMER GOV. SANUSI LAMIDO SANUSI OF CENTRAL BANK OF NIGERIA, MRS VICTORIA ALONGE (L) AND MR BASHIR RAHIM, DISCUSSING AFTER HEARING OF THE SUIT FILED AGAINST POLICE AND DSS, AT THE FEDERAL HIGH COURT IN IKOYI, LAGOS, ON THURSDAY (3/4/14).

The court noted that the first and third respondents presented conflicting averments in their counter affidavits, which shows that they were not on the same page on the issue and had acted in bad faith.
The court declared: “The averment of the second respondent is frugal, as it stated clearly that they had not been briefed by anyone to investigate or arrest the applicant.
“The first respondent laboured to submit that the applicant was not entitled to a grant of perpetual injunction, but this court is of the opinion that for every infraction, the applicant is entitled to a relief.
“This court believes that the action of the respondents in this suit, deserves condemnation and exemplary damages. This court has no doubt that the applicant has made out his case against the respondents, and so, resolve all the issues in favour of the applicant.
“For the avoidance of doubt, the court makes the following declaratory orders:
“A declaration that the first respondent acting through the officers of the third respondent or its privies, does not have any power to forcefully withdraw and keep the passport of the applicant for any reason whatsoever.
“A declaration that the respondent does not have any power to forcefully withdraw and seize the passport of the applicant without compliance with section 5 (1) of the Passport Miscellanous Provisions Act 2004.
“A declaration that the forceful seizure and detention of applicant’s passport, is an unlawful violation of his right to freedom of movement, enshrined in section 35 of the 1999 Constitution and article 12 of the Charter on Human and Peoples Right Act.
“A declaration that the conduct of respondents acting through the officers of the DSS, in forcefully arresting the applicant without due allegation or suspicion of a crime, is an unlawful violation of his right to personal liberty.
“An order of this court is hereby made restraining the respondent, their agents, privies or any other law enforcement agency of the respondents, from further interfering, harassing or infringing on the personal liberty of the applicant.
“An order for immediate release to the applicant of his international passport forcefully withdrawn and seized on February 20, is hereby made. Having granted a restraining order, the order of perpetual injunction cannot be granted because for every infringement, the applicant has a right to come to court.
“An exemplary damages against the respondents jointly and severally is also awarded in the sum of N50 million only.
“An order is also made directing the respondent to make a public apology to the applicant for unlawful arrest, detention and harassment.”

Commendations greet judgment

Meanwhile, commendations across the country yesterday greeted the court judgment
Reacting to the judgment, a member of the inner bar, Mr Sebastian Hon, SAN said: “The Supreme Court had in the case of Director of SSS vs Agbakoba, held that it is wrong for security agencies to impound anybody’s international passport because it infringes on the person’s right of freedom of movement which is guaranteed by the constitution.
“I believe that the Federal High Court in Lagos must have drawn strength from that judgment. Mind you, the award of the N50 million damages may not actually be because he was detained or interrogated few hours by security agents, but because of the continued withholding of his passport.
Another Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Jubril Okutekpa, said: “The issue of seizure of passport was settled in the case of Agbakoba vs the SSS. We are not in a military regime. Judges have been authorized by the constitution to give judgment irrespective of whose ox is gored. We must commend the judge for being bold enough to interpret the constitution as it is.
“The constitution guarantees freedom of movement to every citizen. How can that be possible if security operatives seize people’s passports on mere ground that it is investigating one allegation or the other?”
In his reaction, Yunus Ustaz Usman, SAN said: “I have not read the judgment so it will not be fair for me to start criticizing it deeply at this time. However, I hold the view that Nigeria is not under a military rule. Therefore, the constitution and its provisions remain sacrosanct.”
Human rights crusader, Mr Bamidele Aturu, in his reaction commended the judgment but expressed worry that the Federal Government may not learn any lesson from the episode.
Aturu said: “I hope that will teach the Federal Government a lesson not to violate peoples’ rights. If they violate peoples’ right and they go to court, then the court will act to defend citizens’ right.
“That is what I can say about the judgement. It should be a lesson to them not infringe on peoples’ right but I know that at the end of the day, government does not learn any lesson but I hope they will learn from this.”

CNPP applauds  ruling

The Conference of Nigeria Political Parties, CNPP, also applauded the judgment. Reacting to the court verdict, via telephone conversation with Vanguard in Abuja, National Publicity Secretary of CNPP, Mr. Osita Okechukwu, said the verdict was a victory for rule of law.
He said: “It is a good judgment and welcome development.”

- See more at: http://www.vanguardngr.com/2014/04/dss-appeal-court-judgment-ordering-fg-police-pay-sanusi-n50m-damages/#sthash.7yxMvm2J.dpuf

DSS to appeal Court judgment ordering FG, Police to pay Sanusi N50m damages

on April 04, 2014   /   in Headlines 12:00 am   /   Comments

By Soni Daniel, Innocent Anaba, Ikechukwu Nnochiri, Dapo Akinrefon & Chris Ochayi
LAGOS — Suspended Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, Mallam Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, yesterday, secured a major victory in his legal battle against the Federal Government as a Federal High Court sitting in Lagos, declared as unlawful, his arrest and seizure of his international passport on February 20.
The court in a judgment delivered by Justice Ibrahim Buba on the suit filed by Sanusi for the enforcement of his fundamental rights also awarded him N50 million as damages. The court further ordered the Federal Government to tender a public apology to him.

Mallam Sanusi Lamido Sanusi

Respondents in the suit were the Attorney-General of the Federation, Inspector-General of Police and Department of State Services, DSS.

DSS to appeal  judgment

Meanwhile, the Department of State Services, DSS, had served notice last night that it was appealing the judgment.
Deputy Director, Public Relations of DSS, Marilyn Ogar, confirmed the decision of the security agency to Vanguard.
“We are appealing the judgment immediately,” Ogar said but did not give details.
Earlier, the Police had said that they would not comment on it until it got the certified true copy of the verdict.
Force PRO, Mr Frank Mbah, said that the force was unaware of the judgment as at press time.

Preliminary  objection

The court first ruled on the preliminary objection by the Attorney-General of the Federation, challenging the jurisdiction of the court to entertain the suit, which it dismissed.
The AGF had argued that the suit was wrongly instituted before the Federal High Court since the matter bordered on the employment of the applicant and so, should be within the exclusive jurisdiction of the National Industrial Court.
Dismissing the objection, the court held that the provisions of Section 11 of the Labour Act, cannot take away the jurisdiction bestowed on the Federal High Court by the Constitution, noting that the provisions of Section 251 of the constitution vest jurisdiction on the Federal High Court, to entertain matters touching on enforcement of fundamental human rights.
The court said the applicant had brought the suit under the provisions of Chapter 4 of the Constitution, seeking an enforcement of his rights, and so, is not a dispute relating to his terms of employment.
According to the court, “the averment by respondent that the matter is labour related is far from the truth. The first respondent is trying to set up another case for the applicant. It is a case of ‘shifting the goal post’ and making a case for the applicant.
“The fact deposed in the applicant’s originating summons and his affidavit speaks for itself. It is a suit for enforcement of his fundamental right which is recognisable by the Federal High Court. The court allows any person who perceives that his rights are likely to be infringed on to approach the court for redress.”
The court consequently dismissed the preliminary objection and held that it had the jurisdiction to hear and determine the applicant’s suit.

Respondents fail to answer questions raised

On the main suit, the court held that from the totality of averments in the applicant’s originating summons, there was no doubt that the respondents had failed to answer all the questions raised.

COUNSELS TO FORMER GOV. SANUSI LAMIDO SANUSI OF CENTRAL BANK OF NIGERIA, MRS VICTORIA ALONGE (L) AND MR BASHIR RAHIM, DISCUSSING AFTER HEARING OF THE SUIT FILED AGAINST POLICE AND DSS, AT THE FEDERAL HIGH COURT IN IKOYI, LAGOS, ON THURSDAY (3/4/14).

The court noted that the first and third respondents presented conflicting averments in their counter affidavits, which shows that they were not on the same page on the issue and had acted in bad faith.
The court declared: “The averment of the second respondent is frugal, as it stated clearly that they had not been briefed by anyone to investigate or arrest the applicant.
“The first respondent laboured to submit that the applicant was not entitled to a grant of perpetual injunction, but this court is of the opinion that for every infraction, the applicant is entitled to a relief.
“This court believes that the action of the respondents in this suit, deserves condemnation and exemplary damages. This court has no doubt that the applicant has made out his case against the respondents, and so, resolve all the issues in favour of the applicant.
“For the avoidance of doubt, the court makes the following declaratory orders:
“A declaration that the first respondent acting through the officers of the third respondent or its privies, does not have any power to forcefully withdraw and keep the passport of the applicant for any reason whatsoever.
“A declaration that the respondent does not have any power to forcefully withdraw and seize the passport of the applicant without compliance with section 5 (1) of the Passport Miscellanous Provisions Act 2004.
“A declaration that the forceful seizure and detention of applicant’s passport, is an unlawful violation of his right to freedom of movement, enshrined in section 35 of the 1999 Constitution and article 12 of the Charter on Human and Peoples Right Act.
“A declaration that the conduct of respondents acting through the officers of the DSS, in forcefully arresting the applicant without due allegation or suspicion of a crime, is an unlawful violation of his right to personal liberty.
“An order of this court is hereby made restraining the respondent, their agents, privies or any other law enforcement agency of the respondents, from further interfering, harassing or infringing on the personal liberty of the applicant.
“An order for immediate release to the applicant of his international passport forcefully withdrawn and seized on February 20, is hereby made. Having granted a restraining order, the order of perpetual injunction cannot be granted because for every infringement, the applicant has a right to come to court.
“An exemplary damages against the respondents jointly and severally is also awarded in the sum of N50 million only.
“An order is also made directing the respondent to make a public apology to the applicant for unlawful arrest, detention and harassment.”

Commendations greet judgment

Meanwhile, commendations across the country yesterday greeted the court judgment
Reacting to the judgment, a member of the inner bar, Mr Sebastian Hon, SAN said: “The Supreme Court had in the case of Director of SSS vs Agbakoba, held that it is wrong for security agencies to impound anybody’s international passport because it infringes on the person’s right of freedom of movement which is guaranteed by the constitution.
“I believe that the Federal High Court in Lagos must have drawn strength from that judgment. Mind you, the award of the N50 million damages may not actually be because he was detained or interrogated few hours by security agents, but because of the continued withholding of his passport.
Another Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Jubril Okutekpa, said: “The issue of seizure of passport was settled in the case of Agbakoba vs the SSS. We are not in a military regime. Judges have been authorized by the constitution to give judgment irrespective of whose ox is gored. We must commend the judge for being bold enough to interpret the constitution as it is.
“The constitution guarantees freedom of movement to every citizen. How can that be possible if security operatives seize people’s passports on mere ground that it is investigating one allegation or the other?”
In his reaction, Yunus Ustaz Usman, SAN said: “I have not read the judgment so it will not be fair for me to start criticizing it deeply at this time. However, I hold the view that Nigeria is not under a military rule. Therefore, the constitution and its provisions remain sacrosanct.”
Human rights crusader, Mr Bamidele Aturu, in his reaction commended the judgment but expressed worry that the Federal Government may not learn any lesson from the episode.
Aturu said: “I hope that will teach the Federal Government a lesson not to violate peoples’ rights. If they violate peoples’ right and they go to court, then the court will act to defend citizens’ right.
“That is what I can say about the judgement. It should be a lesson to them not infringe on peoples’ right but I know that at the end of the day, government does not learn any lesson but I hope they will learn from this.”

CNPP applauds  ruling

The Conference of Nigeria Political Parties, CNPP, also applauded the judgment. Reacting to the court verdict, via telephone conversation with Vanguard in Abuja, National Publicity Secretary of CNPP, Mr. Osita Okechukwu, said the verdict was a victory for rule of law.
He said: “It is a good judgment and welcome development.”

- See more at: http://www.vanguardngr.com/2014/04/dss-appeal-court-judgment-ordering-fg-police-pay-sanusi-n50m-damages/#sthash.7yxMvm2J.dpuf

Nigeria, 5 other countries, have largest numbers of extremely poor people

Nigeria, 5 other countries, have largest numbers of extremely poor people

The World Bank President, Jim Yong Kim, while addressing participants at the Council on Foreign Relations, CFR, meeting in New York on Tuesday April 1st, said five countries, including Nigeria, make up two-thirds of the world's extremely poor people.

“The fact is that two-thirds of the world’s extreme poor are concentrated in just five countries – India, China, Nigeria, Bangladesh, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. If you add another five countries — Indonesia, Pakistan, Tanzania, Ethiopia, and Kenya – the total grows to 80 percent of the extreme poor.”

 “By extremely poor, we mean people living on less than $1.25 a day. And more than a billion people in the world live on less than that each day.”

And we are an oil producing country. We need a government that works!

Bomb Club unveils plan for celebrities

Fun lovers in Surulere, Lagos, may be keeping a date with the management of The Bomb Club, the newest night spot in the city, any time soon.

As part of the activities lined up to celebrate its arrival on the entertainment scene, the club plans to host celebrities and corporate executives to a ‘Night of Stars’.

Announcing this in a recent meeting with journalists, the chief executive officer of the club, Mr. Patrick Omeje, said the event would afford the guests an opportunity to unwind and network.

He said, “The Bomb Club offers anything you need, when it comes to entertainment and relaxation. We want to prove that it is not only on Lagos Island you can get this kind of treat. This club was established for this purpose. Before now, no such event centre existed in Surulere and in most parts of the mainland. We want people to be able to chill out here without having to drive all the way to the Island. We want to reposition the minds of the people on the mainland.”

Omeje said that stakeholders in the music, movie and visual arts industries would be given additional opportunity to attend other programmes, such as ‘An Evening with Editors’ and ‘Corporate Night’, at the club.

I’ll give marriage another shot –Chika Ike

Chika Ike

Star actress, Chika Ike, speaks with JAYNE AUGOYE about her divorce and career

Nollywood actress, Chika Ike, is no stranger to controversy. In the last few months, she managed to keep Nigerians talking about issues surrounding her recent divorce, which she announced on social media, and her frequent holiday trips abroad.

Like most other Nollywood stars who love to keep the gossip mills busy at all times, the leggy actress always appears to be the subject of debates among movie fans.

But, in an interview with our correspondent, Chika denies that she has ever gone out of her way to attract controversy. She says, “I have stopped searching for my name on the Internet. In fact, I don’t bother myself with gossips and negative comments about me any longer. I have a management team that deals with all that.

“When my aides want me to see or read whatever has been written or said about me, they simply draw my attention to it. Celebrities must learn to ignore what people say about them so they can live long and be happy. That is my principle.”

The soft-spoken actress says she owes nobody an apology for sharing some photographs taken during her recent trips to Dubai and France with her fans on Instagram.

“The truth is that I love to travel around the world. If anyone feels hurt by this, that is their business. I love to take pictures during my trips abroad and share them with my fans. I do this so as to educate them. Many of them have never been to these countries. So, whenever I post these images, I have no bad intentions.”

As more celebrities venture into philanthropy and charity related activities, critics have been quick to say that their actions are nothing other than popularity contest. But Chika, who currently runs a non-governmental organisation that caters for the less-privileged, her intentions are genuine.

“I am truly passionate about charity work, but I can’t speak for other people in my shoes. I am the sole financier of my NGO and its activities, though I get some form of assistance from members of my family and my friends. I strongly believe that if you want people to support a particular cause, you have to show and prove that you are able to hold your own any day.”

Although Chika prides herself in being a public figure, she is always careful not to divulge information relating to her personal life. Little wonder, many movie fans hardly knew she was married until they learnt about the breakup with her former husband.

Chika declines to comment on the circumstances that led to the dissolution of her marriage. “I don’t want to talk about the divorce because it is already in the past and I have since moved on. I am still open to marriage and I might give it a second shot because I believe in love. For now, I am most concerned with my own happiness,” she says.

Commenting on the increasing rate of Nigerian celebrity divorces, the actress, who has starred in over 200 Nollywood movies, says, “Celebrities also make mistakes. I don’t think they have a bad time combining their successful careers and managing the home front or their marriages on the side.

“All the talk about some men being afraid to walk up to a female celebrity and ask her out does not make sense to me. Any man that cannot walk up to me and toast me is not manly enough. I don’t have a long list or criteria for my ideal man. All I want is that he must make me happy.”

Ever since she appeared in an epic movie entitled, Mirror of Beauty, which was screened in major cinemas in England, Chika’s career has been on a steady rise.

With the birth of what is now known as the ‘New Nollywood’, the actress who was recently appointed brand ambassador of Bullet Energy Drink, already has her eyes fixed on the big pictures.

She says, “I constantly strive to take part in quality movie productions and I have had cause to turn down some scripts that did not fit in accordingly.

“My greatest desire is to play a living legend in a Nollywood movie, as that will give me so much fulfilment.”