8 BALLONS D'OR HAS A NICE RING!

Lionel Messi Presented With Gold Rings To Celebrate Each Crown

Lionel Messi has been gifted with eight golden rings to represent each of his Ballon d'Or crowns.
The Argentinian star, 36, was named as the winner of the award for a record-breaking eighth time during a plush ceremony in Paris recently.

The Inter Miami forward was given the 14-carat gold rings by sportswear giant Adidas. Each ring, which are reportedly set to be auctioned off, signifies one of Messi's Ballon d'Or victories.
They feature an inscription relating to memorable moments in Messi's career, including one which has three stars to mark Argentina's World Cup triumphs and another with the number '91' to mark his record goals tally in a calendar year.
One of the photos released by Adidas depicts Messi paying tribute to NBA legend Bill Russell.

Messi is pictured with his hands between his face, wearing the eight rings, to replicate a similar pose by 11-time NBA championship winner Russell from an iconic photoshoot in 1996.

The Argentinian, considered among the greatest players of all time, pipped Man City star Erling Haaland to this year's Ballon d'Or award.

KNOCK OUT PUNCH!

 Supreme Court Throws Out Atiku, Obi's Petition Challenging Tinubu's Victory

The supreme court has dismissed the appeal filed by Atiku Abubakar against the election of President Bola Tinubu.

In a unanimous verdict delivered on Thursday, the court ruled that the appeal filed by Abubakar, candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), lacked merit.

“On the whole, it is my view that there is no merit in this appeal,” Justice Inyang Okoro said.

Abubakar had sought to overturn the judgment of the presidential election petition tribunal which affirmed Tinubu’s election as president.

Abubakar had challenged Tinubu’s eligibility to contest the election.

He also challenged the failure of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to transmit election results electronically.

In the 35 grounds notice of appeal, he submitted that the tribunal’s findings were done with “grave errors and gross misrepresentation” which resulted in a miscarriage of justice.

In a separate application, Abubakar asked the court to grant him leave to file fresh evidence which he obtained from the Chicago State University (CSU) against Tinubu.

Abubakar had alleged that Tinubu’s academic records were fraught with discrepancies and forgeries.

At the court session on Monday, Chris Uche, counsel to Abubakar and the PDP, submitted that the issue involving Tinubu’s certificate is a “weighty, grave and constitutional” one, which the supreme court should admit as fresh evidence against President Tinubu.

Uche said the supreme court “has a duty” to look into the new evidence submitted and reach a decision by avoiding the issue of technicality.

Uwani Abba-Aji, the only female on the panel, agreed with the lead judgment.

Lawal Garba, another justice, agreed with the lead judgment. He said although the application by Abubakar for fresh evidence was “interesting”, the court is bound by the law.

In agreeing with the lead judgment, Ibrahim Tijani described Abubakar’s application for fresh evidence as “frivolous and vexatious” and dismissed the appeal.

Ibrahim Saulawa said the appeal was “grossly unmeritorious” and deserves to be dismissed.

Emmanuel Agim, the last justice, also dismissed the application and appeal.

JUDGEMENT DAY!

Tinubu, Atiku, Obi Know Fate Today

The leadership of the ruling All Progressives Congress and the two opposition parties – the Peoples Democratic Party and the Labour Party  have expressed confidence that they will secure victory as the Supreme Court delivers judgment on the February 25 presidential election today.

The PDP and the LP are challenging the declaration of President Bola Tinubu of the APC as the winner of the poll.

The Presidential Election Petitions Court had in September dismissed their petitions against Tinubu.

Displeased, the two major opposition parties and their candidates, Atiku Abubakar (PDP) and Peter Obi (LP), approached the Supreme Court seeking to overturn Tinubu’s victory.

The apex court, on Monday, heard the cases and on Wednesday announced that judgment would be delivered on Thursday (today).

The Supreme Court’s Director of Information, Dr Festus Akande, told journalists on Wednesday that, “Tomorrow, Thursday has been fixed for judgment on the appeals brought by Atiku and Peter Obi.”

Reacting to the announcement, each of the three parties expressed optimism that the verdict would go their way.

The APC Director of Publicity, Bala Ibrahim, said the apex court would affirm Tinubu’s victory, given the evidence before the court.

He said, “Certainly, we are still sure of victory. In fact, our optimism is even stronger now because all the facts presented that day was in our favour. We are very confident of the integrity of the justices of the Supreme Court and we have no doubt in our mind that there is nothing to give us any iota of doubt with regards to getting justice tomorrow (Thursday)."

But the National Legal Adviser of LP, Kehinde Edun, disagreed, saying their candidate, Obi, will emerge victorious.

Edun said,  “We are expecting victory. We have presented our case before the court and even at the Court of Appeal, we have tabled fresh facts. Don’t mind all these talks that the law cannot accommodate fresh evidence. Which law says that?

“If something has happened and you want justice, if there is still time, we will put in everything we want to add. So, we are confident we will get victory for Nigerians and the Labour Party.”

On his part, the PDP Deputy National Publicity Secretary, Ibrahim Abdullahi, urged the Supreme Court to see beyond narrow considerations in its judgment.

He said, “We are appealing to their conscience to see beyond the narrow considerations that have characterised the way the judiciary has acted in recent times. That is approbating and reprobating at the same time. It is important to know that there is a country that we are bequeathing to our children and grandchildren yet unborn."

KIDNAPPERS ON THE PROWL!

 Gunmen Abduct Igbo Millionaires In Lagos For Ransome

By Lanre Olaleye 

Kidnappers may have found a new veritable haven in Lagos to perpetrate their dastardly act. 

In what seems to be a target attack on influential Igbo wealthy men in Lagos, the kidnappers are raking in millions of Naira on a daily basis from Igbo residents in Lagos especially the rich and wealthy among them.

The Snoop gathered that in the past few weeks, kidnappers have been having field day across the state while raking in huge sums of money as ransome.

They were said to be making so much money in local and foreign currencies paid as ransome by helpless victims in the ever-busy business districts and residential areas in the state.

The gun-totting men of the underworld have exclusively targeted wealthy businessmen who will rather pay ransome than be killed.

Some of their top victims include business mogul and owner of Globus Supermarket Limited, Ozoemena Dan Uchenna.

With branches spread all over Lagos, the Enugu-born chain supermarket owner ranks among the super rich Igbo in Lagos. He was allegedly abducted at Okota area and kept in captivity while the abductors demanded  N100m ransome before he could be released. They threatened to kill him if the family refused to pay the ransome.

While the negotiations on his release were still ongoing, the kidnapping syndicate allegedly struck again at Bucknor Estate in Ejigbo. They kidnapped the owner of Solid Rang Hotel, located at Grandmate Bus Stop in Ijegun. He was made to pay about N80m as ransom before his release last week.

 Police sources said the owner of the four-star hotel was abducted as he was entering his house at Ali Dada area in Ago.  They reportedly laid siege to his gate as he was entering his house. They reportedly flashed the headlight of their RS 350 Lexus car before apprehending him by the gate..

Again, the owner of an eatery  identified as Nobis, an Igbo was also last week abducted and kept in an undisclosed location for several days before his family rallied around to raise N10m, which they paid to the kidnappers before he was released.

At Governor’s Road in Ikotun, the kidnappers shot sporadically for almost 30 minutes without the intervention of any security operatives despite the proximity of a police station at the end of the long stretch road. Many scampered for safety to avoid being hit by stray bullets. 

In the ensuing confusion, a businessman identified as Chimex and three others were kidnapped and kept in captivity until each of them paid N4m ransome before they were eventually released.

The same story has played out in Igando, Idimu, Gowon Estate, Egbeda, and Agege areas of Lagos, where victims have been helplessly kidnapped and forced to pay huge ransome before they were released.

Speaking on the selective target of the wealthy Igbo businessmen, a source who craved anonimity said kidnapping has become less lucrative in the East as most wealthy men would rather fly to their destinations than drive on roads for fear of being abducted.

According to him: "Since the richmen who have the capacity to pay ransome are no longer coming, they have decided to trail them to Lagos."

Speaking further, he said: "They are quite aware of the risk associated with Lagos but they rely on intelligence gathering; they mount surveillance on their targets; the level of security around the target as well as their escape plan. This is why the police have not been able to track them because they literally disappear without any trace after each operation."

The kidnappers have practically been having a field day despite hightec crime fighting tools at the disposal of RRS strategic teams stationed across the state. "They are not catch-in-the-air armed robbers but kidnappers who abduct their victims and keep them in safe custody and would only release them after ransome had been paid.

"The police have not been able to track them because they normally warn families of their victims against reporting to the police or they might be forced to kill the victims. Hence, the family don't usually give useful information on the kidnappers to the police," our source informed.

The Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, Benjamin Hundeyin, said that the police are aware of the kidnappings and are taking decisive actions to round up the criminals. 

He explained that the Commissioner of Police has also summoned all the tactical teams and given them marching orders to fish out the perpetrators and bring them to book without delay.

But it appears to be a tall order that has bear no fruits yet as the kidnappers struck again at Lanre Bus Stop last Thursday evening as they kidnapped yet another victim before escaping.

CELEBRATION OF LIFE!

Eleranigbe Monarch Buries Father In Style

By Lanre Olaleye 

If the dead were to look back, Omo Oba Shaffy Adeleke Ajijola would have walked with pride among the saints seeing his children accord him a beffitting burial to circle his 84 years sojourn on earth.

Omo Oba Ajijola who is the father of the Olu of Araromi Tope Eleranigbe monarch, Oba Hameed Adejoro Ajijola died on Tuesday 10th October 2023 after a brief illness. 

Prior to his death, Pa Ajijola had requested his two sons, Hameed and Hakeem to give him a spectacular burial ceremony worthy of his standing as the Family Head of Ajijola Ruling House of Araromi Tope Eleranigbe in Ibeju-Lekki Local Government Area of Lagos State. 

Hence, the children spared no effort in ensuring their late father's last wish came to pass. Being a devout Muslim, his remains were committed to mother earth the same day according to Islamic burial rites. 

At the ripe age of 84, the demise of the top official of the United Nations was greeted with funfare as many attested to his good deeds while on earth.

SERVICE TO HUMANITY

At the twilight of his diplomatic career in the early 70s, the deceased contributed meaningfully to the human and capital development of his family and communities in both Araromi and Epe. A philanthropist with milk of kindness, it was to his credit that many indigenes rose from humble beginnings to the top of their careers through Pa Ajijola's financial and moral support.

Little wonder why many sympathisers, old acquaintances, friends and relations trooped to the Ajijola Ruling House in Araromi to pay their last respect to Omo Oba Shaffy Adeleke Ajijola.

At the eight-day prayer held for the deceased at Ogudu, it was a tributary affair as Muslim clerics led by the Chief Imam of Epe, Sheikh Abdulateef Oladapo and ably assisted by the Chief Imam of Ibafo, Sheikh Abdulganiy Ajijola took stock of the good deeds of the deceased which has touched the lives of not quite a few as well as the Muslim communities in Epe and Araromi.

While praying for the repose of his soul, Sheikh Oladapo remarked that the deceased had lived a good life worthy of emulation, noting that he has lighted the path of his children and family members with good deeds that would gladdens God's heart.

EPIC COLOURFUL FINAL BURIAL

Dateline: 21st October 2023 (Jubilee Chalets, Epe)

All roads led to Jubilee Chalets located along Chalet Road, off Obafemi Awolowo Road, Oke Oyinbo, Epe for the final burial ceremony of the late Olori Ebi of Iyalode/Erinle Family of Epe, Pa Shaffy Adeleke Ajijola who died 10th October, 2023.

For two days, preparations had been on for the impending event as Tolu Adeite Events were charged with lightning and decorations of the 1600 capacity hall. And what a superb job they did as the hall was not only well decorated but arrayed with the most modern fittings that gave the hall the most colourful spectacle. A 50 yard drive from the main gate somewhat engendered the curiosity of guests to know what was in the offing. And they were not disappointed as the serene environment dotted by white-colour chalets with beautiful lawns and flowers stylishly compliment the outdoor decorations in and around the hall.

The sweet aroma of sumptuous meals by Exclusive Parties which cascaded the air undoubtedly wet the appetite of the early callers. 

As early as 11 a.m. when invited guests started arriving, it was evident everyone was in for an epic celebration of the life of an icon as camera men, photographers, journalists and bloggers took their strategic positions inside the hall. 

First to arrive among invited dignitaries was Dr Bharat Soni, an Indian and CBN Consultant. Dressed in white short Agbada with a yellow cap to match, Dr Bharat who is an associate of Olu of Araromi drove into the event premises in a black Prado Jeep with two fully-armed police escorts. He was received by a visibly elated Eleranigbe monarch who gladly introduced him to his friends and uncles present. 

At exactly 12:30 p.m. Oba Ajijola sauntered into the hall accompanied by relations and friends including Dr. Bharat who seemed to be captivated by the epoch Yoruba burial ceremony imbued in traditional fashion attire, music, food and dance. By 2:00 p.m. the hall was almost filled to the brim with the arrival of more important dignitaries. 

 ASSEMBLY OF ROYAL FATHERS

Perhaps, only the Alara of Ilara and the Oloja of Epe would have attracted more royal fathers than the Olu of Araromi, Oba (Dr.) Hameed Adejoro Ajijola at the burial of his late father, Omo Oba Shaffy Adeleke Ajijola. It was an array of royal fathers from the Lagos East Senatorial District of Lagos who honoured the young monarch with their presence.

The long list includes: The Alara of Ilara, Oba Ogunsanwo; Onibeju of Ibejuland, Oba Waliu Oguntolu, Ogunfayo of Iwereko, Oba Larris Idogun; Onisolu of Isolu Alade, Oba Muyideen Balogun; Omonla of Odo Mola, Oba Adebowale; Oba Lepia; 

Oba Elemure, Ogun State and Gbadewolu of Odo Egiri, Oba Oluwo. They were joined by Opemoluwa of Ibeju, Chief Lasisi.

High Chief Kazeem Erinle, Baale Okegun led the Baales roll call which includes Baales of Aiyetoro, Baales of Arapagi, Baale of Ajegbawa, Baale Oko Oba, Baale Shapati, Baale Ipara, Baale Omi Pepeye, Baale Kayetoro, Baale Epetu and Baale Abule Aha.

Other dignitaries at the event include members of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon Biodun Tobun; Hon Seun Ogunkelu; Chief Eleku, Obafuwaji Epe; Chief Adeleke Ojomu, Olu Omo of Lakowe; Mr Olakere Odunsote; Ambassador Toyin; Dr Biodun Muritala, Accountant General of Lagos State; Hon Monsuru, Executive Chairman, Eredo Local Government; members of Epe Club among whom were Prof Onibon, Otunba Bayo Apena and Hon Giwa Alooma. 

Also on the roll call were Mr and Mrs Irene Johnson, Hon Ahmodu Olarewaju,  Pharm. Shakiru Muritala,  Engr Kemi Muritala among others too numerous to mention.

KWAM 1 OR NOT

For adent Fuji music lovers, the presence of Mujeeb Iyanda Olubodun on the band stand evoke memory of KWAM 1as he serenaded the guests with sweet melodies likened to the Fuji icon. Infact, hearing the music reverberating across the neighbourhood, many had thought it was the Fuji icon on the band stand. It was, however, a pleasant surprise as Iyanda Olubodun literally ditched music just like KWAM 1.

Interestingly, Olori Mariam Ajijola was the cynosure of all eyes when she stepped unto the dance floor accompanied by her husband and children. Cladding an elegant white Chivon with an emerald gold headgear, she looks quite royal for a queen to be adored by all and sundry. Her husband dutifully led the adoration by spraying her with lots of crisp naira notes to the admiration of the capacity crowd. Other invited dignitaries soon joined in appreciating Olori Mariam in raining naira notes on the delectable queen who literally stole the show in company of her friends.

With more than enough food and drinks as well as good music in a convivial atmosphere, the celebration of life of Pa Shaffy Adeleke Ajijola will surely linger in the memory of many for a long time to come.

 Eleranigbe Monarch Enjoins Lagosians to Cooperate with Government

By Lanre Olaleye

Oba (Dr) Hameed Adejoro Ajijola, the Olu of Araromi and Paramount ruler of Eleranigbe in Ibeju/Lekki Local Government Area of Lagos State has enjoined Lagosians to cooperate with the state government to bring more development to the state.

The monarch in a press statement on the occasion of Eid-Kabir celebration enjoined Muslims and non-Muslims to draw lessons on the essence of Sallah which is a 

festival of sacrifice and total obedience to Allah as exemplified in the exceptional action of Prophet Ibrahim. 

According to him, "there is no greater sense of duty ever recorded in history outside the ennobling example of Prophet Ibrahim in offering his only son Ismail as a sacrifice to Allah, the monarch added.

While suing for peace in Lagos and the country in general, Oba Ajijola also called on Lagosians to cooperate with the administration of Gov. Babajide Sanwo-olu in its strive to make Lagos the pride of all in all ramifications.

"Lagos is home to all and we must join hands with government to make it better. The present government is working hard to make Lagos the best city in the sub-saharan  Africa and it is our duty to cooperate with government to bring more development to our dear state." He said.