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Bobrisky jailed  6 months without fine option for Naira abuse

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A Federal High Court in Lagos State, on Friday, sentenced convicted cross dresser, Idris Okuneye (alias Bobrisky), to six months in prison for abuse of the Naira.

The court did not give the cross dresser an option of fine.

Bobrisky was  prosecuted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

The court convicted him on April 5, following his guilty plea, but reserved sentence until April 9.

The court had ordered Okuneye to be kept in the custody of the EFCC pending  sentencing.

However, due to Federal Government’s declaration of April 9, April  10 and April 11 public holiday, the case could not proceed as scheduled.

On Friday, Justice Abimbola Awogboro sentenced the convict without an option of fine.

The judge held that  imprisonment would take effect from the date of the cross dresser’s arrest.

Okuneye  was  taken away by EFCC operatives immediately after his sentencing.

The EFCC had, on April 4, filed a six-count charge against Okuneye.

The charge bordered on Naira mutilation and money laundering.

He was consequently arraigned on April 5 and he pleaded guilty to the first four counts.

The court struck out the last two counts following an application by the EFCC.

On April 5, Mr Bolaji Temitope, a  prosecution witness and  Assistant Suprintendant of  EFCC,  gave evidence before the court and narrated the circumstances surrounding prosecution of Okuneye.

After review of the facts of the case, EFCC counsel, Mr Suleiman Suleiman, prayed  the court to convict the cross dresser.

According to EFCC, Okuneye  committed the offences on March 24, at Circle Mall, Jakande, Lekki, Lagos State.

The commission stated that Okuneye tampered with the cumulative sum of N400,000 while dancing during a social event, by spraying same.

Okuneye also sprayed various tranches of money such as N20,000 and N50,000 at various events in 2022 and 2023, according to EFCC.

The offences contravene  Section 21(1) Central Bank Act of 2007 and Section 19 of Money Laundering Act of 2022.

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Musical Icon: Celebrating two decades since 2baba’s debut album

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Sensational African Legend, Innocent Ujah Idibia, known by his stage name 2Baba, formerly as 2face Idibia was a member of a band called the Plantashun Boiz before moving on to join Kennis music where he became a house hold name in the music industry.

He released his debut album ‘face 2 face’ on March 15, 2004. It became a major hit as it sold up to 2 million copies initially in Nigeria, but quickly spread through western and southern Africa, and eventually making an impact in Europe as well. The success of the album was attributed to the single ‘African Queen’ which was a global hit and was featured as a sound track in the movie ‘Phat Girls’ in 2006 and has remained evergreen.

He has over the years released other albums and songs but the ‘Face 2 Face’ album was important in taking Nigerian mainstream pop music international.

2Baba is known for being an artist who constantly is lyrically gifted and uses his music to speak on social justice which goes back to two decades.

He also used his music to address those who criticized him for leaving Plantashun Boiz and also when he had marital issues.

‘Face 2 Face’ album introduced listeners to what we will be expecting from the Icon over the years and he did not disappoint. He was known for being a singer, rapper, songwriter, sage, but most of all, a pacesetter. He was also versatile as he always delivered on every genre.

Currently 48 years of age, he doesn’t jump on beats like before, but his legacy still stands tall as he ushered Nigerian music into a new limelight in the early 2000’s.

 

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Amstel Malta illuminates African creativity at the 10th AMVCAs

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The 10th edition of the Africa Magic Viewer’s Choice Awards (AMVCAs) transcended mere spectacle; it became a historic celebration of African creativity and storytelling. On May 10th, 2024, the event unfolded as a vibrant tapestry of culture, fashion, and talent, with luminaries from across the continent converging in a dazzling display of African excellence.

Amstel Malta, Nigeria’s premier malt brand, stood at the forefront of this celebration, not merely as a sponsor but as a champion of African storytelling. Amidst the pulsating energy of the AMVCAs, Amstel Malta introduced innovative initiatives that left an indelible mark on attendees and participants alike.

The ‘Amstel Malta Reporter’ initiative, for instance, offered an aspiring creative the opportunity of a lifetime: to interact with industry luminaries, conduct exclusive interviews, and immerse themselves in the electrifying atmosphere of the event. Through this initiative, Amstel Malta not only empowered emerging talent but also enriched the fabric of African storytelling.

Additionally, the ‘Get Ready with Me (GRWM)’ contest bestowed upon two fortunate winners an unforgettable AMVCAs weekend, replete with VIP experiences and intimate encounters with industry titans. From the cultural extravaganza to the star-studded awards ceremony, Amstel Malta ensured that these winners were immersed in every facet of the AMVCAs, creating memories that would last a lifetime.

As the curtain fell on the 10th AMVCAs, Amstel Malta’s legacy of support and recognition continued to shine brightly. By sponsoring the prestigious ‘Best Overall Movie’ award and awarding the deserving winner, ‘Breath of Life,’ with a 2 Million Naira cash prize, Amstel Malta reaffirmed its commitment to honoring and empowering African creativity.

In retrospect, the 10th AMVCAs served not only as a celebration of past achievements but as a beacon illuminating the path forward for African storytelling. With Amstel Malta’s unwavering support, the future looks brighter than ever, ensuring that the spotlight remains firmly fixed on the continent’s remarkable storytellers.

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Stevie Wonder granted Ghanaian citizenship: A celebration of Pan-Africanism and musical legacy

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The President of the Republic of Ghana, Nana Addo Akufo-Addo, announced on his official social media account on Tuesday that music legend Stevie Wonder has been granted Ghanaian citizenship.

“In conferring Ghanaian citizenship upon Stevie Wonder, we not only extend our warmest embrace to a beloved son of Africa but also reaffirm our belief in the enduring spirit of Pan-Africanism and the global African family, and the boundless potential of our continent and all its descendants,” President Akufo-Addo stated.

According to a statement from the nation’s presidential website, President Akufo-Addo emphasized that this decision acknowledges Wonder’s immense talent, achievements, and his deep connection to the African continent. He praised Wonder’s tireless efforts to promote unity, solidarity, and cultural exchanges among people of African descent.

Stevie Wonder’s decision to become a citizen of Ghana is seen as a testament to his profound respect and admiration for the nation’s history, culture, and values. His new citizenship is considered a vivid manifestation of the goals of the Year of Return, commemorated in 2019 to foster connections between African peoples on both sides of the Atlantic.

Wonder joins a distinguished list of diasporans who have made Ghana their home, including missionaries, policemen, lawyers, doctors, health workers, writers, artists, and musicians. President Akufo-Addo mentioned notable individuals like George Padmore, Bob Marley’s widow Rita, Maya Angelou, and W.E.B. du Bois as examples.

President Akufo-Addo highlighted Wonder’s influential career spanning over six decades, noting his advocacy for social justice, equality, and human rights. He referenced Peter Tosh’s statement, “Don’t care where you come from; as long as you’re a black man, you’re an African,” emphasizing the significance of Wonder’s decision.

Wonder’s affection for Ghana became apparent during a 2021 conversation with Oprah Winfrey, where he expressed his desire to witness the nation’s resurgence of joy before deciding to relocate there.

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