Actress Toyin Aimakhu Changes Name

Multiple-Award winning actress formerly known as Toyin Aimakhu will be called Toyin ABRAHAM from now onwards.

The actress said the reason behind her name change, "is a family decision and will like to be officially addressed as Toyin Abraham henceforth."

Presently the actress is busy working on her new project; Alakada Reloaded.

You can connect with her on Instagram @toyin_abraham

Pictures As OPU Europe Secretary General Wife Celebrates Birthday In Austria On Christmas Day

It was fun galore on Xmas day as wife of Oodua Progressive Union Secretary General Comrade Jide Sanni celebrated her birthday in Salzburg on Christmas Day. The party which coincided with the end of year party of Nigeria Community attracted a large gathering of who is who including members of OPU in other regions in Austria including Vienna,Linx.
The star attraction of the night aside the birthday celebrant and her husband,is the Global Convener of Oodua Progressive Union,Otunba Gani Adams,who is currently visiting Europe,he was accompanied with his personal assistant,Prince Segun Akanni,and Publisher of Metronews Nigeria,Femi Davies.

Cleaner kills boss for not paying salary in advance

by Afeez Hanafi

A 22-year-old Cameroonian, Joel Ludguo, is currently in police custody at the State Criminal Investigation and Intelligence Department, Yaba, Lagos State, for allegedly killing his boss, Miss Temidayo Adeleke.

Ludguo was a cleaner and lived with the victim on Prince Tayo Adesanya Street, Park View Estate, Ikoyi, Lagos.

PUNCH Metro learnt that Ludguo had approached his boss, whose marriage was scheduled for early 2017, in her apartment around 10.30am on Tuesday, asking her to give him N15,000 out of his December salary so he could travel.

It was gathered that Adeleke explained to him that she didn’t have naira notes on her and told him to be patient.

He was said to have walked out on the woman in anger only to return with a knife and stabbed her in the chest.

A source told our correspondent that Ludguo wanted to flee the house, but the woman’s driver and a security guard put a distress call to the Ikoyi Police Division.

“The cleaner said the woman had not paid him his December salary. It was just a month’s salary and the month has not even ended. He collects N27,000 per month.

“He used a knife to stab the woman in the chest. The woman shouted, which alerted the driver and security guard. He wanted to escape when policemen arrived at the house and arrested him,” the source said.

The ambience of the posh estate was solemn on Thursday when our correspondent visited the deceased’s family members, who lamented that they had yet to come to terms with Adeleke’s death.

Dressed in black, the sister of the deceased, who did not give her name, said the family was in grief and would not talk to any journalist.

“I appreciate your coming. The incident is shocking. The family is sad and grieving and needs privacy at this time. We want to be accorded that respect please. Thank you,” she said.

PUNCH Metro observed that Adelekes’ surroundings were flooded with exotic vehicles of those who had come to sympathise with the family.

A resident, who asked not to be named, said Ludguo had requested N15,000 from his December salary and became angry because the request was not granted.

“He asked her to give him N15,000 from his December salary and she said she just came back from the US and did not have naira notes. She told him to be patient. He insisted that he needed the money to travel and Temidayo (Adeleke) told him to let her be.

“A few minutes later, he sneaked to where the woman was relaxing and stabbed her in the chest.”

The residence’s security guard, who identified himself simply as Abbah, said Adeleke employed the suspect about two months ago, adding that she was generous to him.

He said, “The boy is wicked and I have always warned him. He takes drugs. When policemen checked his clothes, they found tremor there. Madam bought him a new phone last month and she usually gave him money apart from his salary. She brought him home through her church member last month and they lived in her flat.

“It was the driver who lives in the adjoining flat that heard madam scream. By the time he got there, she was gasping with blood gushing out of her chest. The driver alerted me immediately to stop Joel at the gate and he was later arrested.”

A friend of the deceased on Facebook, Ibrahim Obanikoro, described her as a woman of virtues that would be missed by many, including her benefactors.

“I feel extremely low with the knowledge of Temidayo passing. How can such a beautiful, spirited human depart just like that? I wish I could ask God why, but who am I to question the Almighty?

“My heart goes to the Adeleke family and all Dayo’s friends on this immeasurable loss. A loss so painful it eats deep into everyone’s skin. Dayo was indeed an angel. Your person and ways will be missed by all those you touched in your short visitation to the world.

“I have no iota of doubt that you lived a good life and I am 110 per cent sure that your journey back to heaven is to be with the creator. Till we meet again, Temidayo Adeleke, RIP.”

The Lagos State Police spokesperson, SP Dolapo Badmos, had yet to reply to a text message sent to her line on the incident.

Star Wars actress Carrie Fisher dies @ 60

US actress Carrie Fisher, best known for her role as Princess Leia in the Star Wars series, has died aged 60, days after suffering a cardiac arrest.

She was taken ill on a flight from London to Los Angeles on Friday and was taken to hospital when the plane landed.

A family statement announced she had died on Tuesday morning.

Tributes have been pouring in, with Star Wars co-star Mark Hamill simply tweeting: "No words #devastated".

• Live reaction

• Fame, addiction and illness - full obituary

• In her own words

• A life in pictures

• Fans share their stories of star

In a statement released on behalf of Fisher's daughter Billie Lourd, spokesman Simon Halls said: "It is with a very deep sadness that Billie Lourd confirms that her beloved mother Carrie Fisher passed away at 8.55 (16:55 GMT) this morning.

"She was loved by the world and she will be missed profoundly. Our entire family thanks you for your thoughts and prayers."

Her mother, the actress Debbie Reynolds, wrote on her Facebook page: "Thank you to everyone who has embraced the gifts and talents of my beloved and amazing daughter. I am grateful for your thoughts and prayers that are now guiding her to her next stop."

Star Wars co-star Harrison Ford described Fisher as "one-of-a-kind" who lived her life "bravely".

Series creator George Lucas said she was "extremely smart; a talented actress, writer and comedienne with a very colourful personality that everyone loved".

Fisher became a global star through the blockbuster Star Wars series

Fisher had been on tour promoting her latest book, The Princess Diarist, when she was taken ill in the later stages of the flight to Los Angeles. A medic who was travelling on the plane administered first aid before it landed.

The daughter of singer Eddie Fisher and Debbie Reynolds, Carrie Fisher made her film debut opposite Warren Beatty in 1975's Shampoo.

She also appeared in The Blues Brothers, When Harry Met Sally and Hannah and Her Sisters, and provided the voice of Peter Griffin's boss Angela in the adult animated sitcom Family Guy.

But her enduring fame is through her role as Princess Leia in the original Star Wars trilogy, a part she reprised in last year's reboot The Force Awakens.

Carrie Fisher revisited the role of Princess Leia in last year's Star Wars: The Force Awakens

With Paul Simon, to whom she was briefly married

Fisher as a baby with actress mother Debbie Reynolds

On the part, she told the Daily Mail in 2011 that when she got the role in a "little science-fiction film", she just thought of it as a bit of fun.

"It exploded across the firmament of pop culture, taking all of us along with it. It tricked me into becoming a star all on my own."

She was also a successful writer, publishing several novels and memoirs, and working on the scripts for films like the Wedding Singer and Sister Act.

Her latest memoir, The Princess Diarist, contained revelations of an affair with Harrison Ford while the pair were shooting the first Star Wars film in 1976.

Fisher endured a difficult private life, and discussed her years of mental illness and drug addiction in interviews and writing. An early memoir was called Wishful Drinking.

The entertainment world has been quick to mourn and celebrate her life.

IBB Commends Nigerian Troops for Recapturing Sambisa Forest

Former Military President, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB), is highly delighted on the news of successful operations of our gallant military personnel in the Sambisa Forest.

In a statement by Media Office of the former Head State, obtained by PRNigeria, IBB said: "it is a sign of relief, that the Military has finally smocked out Boko Haram terrorists from their notorious enclave of Sambisa Forest" He said.

General Babangida also salute the courage and determination of President Muhammadu Buhari, Army chiefs as well as armed men and women and other security personnel for their sacrifice for the painful liberation of Sambisa Forest and adjoining abode of Boko Haram.

He said: "May I rejoice with the government and Nigerians on the successful dislodging of Boko Haram from their base in Sambisa.

With the successful takeover of the sambisa forest, General Babangida hoped that very soon the remaining Chibok girls will be located and reunite with their families.

The former Military President, reaffirmed his earlier stand that, " President Muhammadu Buhari and the Military are capable of crushing any challenge of the territorial integrity of Nigeria".

The former Military President, pay tributes to all fallen heroes for paying a supreme sacrifice in their efforts of keeping the nation from aggression. Saying: " the Labour of our heroes past, shall never been in vain".

Finally, Gen. Babangida urged the military to unveil a new strategy of further defeating pockets of insurgents/terrorists, armed bandits and cattle rustlers all over the country.

Capture of Sambisa Forest is a Great Achievements- Niger Governor

Niger State Governor, Alhaji Abubakar Sani Bello has described the capture of CAMP ZERO, Sambisa Forest which was the last stronghold of Boko Haram, as a global achievement made possible by the political will of President Muhammadu Buhari and the commitment of the Armed Forces and other security agencies.

Governor Sani Bello said the destruction of Sambisa Forest is a clear and strong message to all criminal elements in the country of the capacity, willingness of the Armed Forces and other security agencies as well as the political will of Mr President in securing every inch of Nigeria.

In a congratulatory message signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Malam Jibrin Baba Ndace, the governor said the destruction of CAMP ZERO was an indication that with the right leadership, temperament, conducive environment and political will, the Nigerian Armed Forces and other security agencies are capable of defeating any criminal elements operating within the country.

Governor Sani Bello commended the Armed Forces, particularly the Nigerian Army and the Nigerian Airforce for their determination, commitment and bravery.

“I commend the effort of the Army, Airforce and all the security agencies involved in the operation that led to final liberation of the dreaded Sambisa Forest. Above all, I commend President Muhammadu Buhari for his political will in seeing to the end of Boko Haram.”

The governor called on security agencies to work together in ensuring that all ‘CAMP ZEROs’ are cleared in Nigeria.

“CAMP ZERO in Sambisa Forest is a metaphorical representation of other enclaves of criminal elements in the country such as armed robbers, kidnappers, cattle rustlers among others. I urge security agencies to work together in identifying and destroying such strongholds."

Woman kills husband over Christmas food -by Samson Folarin

While Nigerians were celebrating Christmas in their homes, a housewife, Christiana Odo, allegedly killed her husband, Rominus, for failing to provide money for the family during the celebration.
PUNCH Metro learnt that the incident happened at the couple’s home on London Barber Street, Majidun, in the Ikorodu area of Lagos State.
It was learnt that Christiana, 37, had asked the husband for money for food to celebrate Christmas, but the husband had said he didn’t have any money.
This was said to have led to a quarrel between the couple, which degenerated into a fight.
Our correspondent was told that in the ensuing scuffle, Christiana, a mother of three, picked a kitchen knife, with which she stabbed the husband to death.
A police source said the incident happened around 5.20pm, adding that it threw the community into confusion.
He said, “The woman asked the man for money for food, but the man turned her down, saying he didn’t have money. This led to an argument and the man hit her. They fought and the woman, in anger, went into the kitchen and got a knife with which she stabbed him to death.
“What attracted neighbours was the man’s scream for help as he was drenched in blood. The woman said it was not intentional.”
The landlord was said to have reported the case to policemen from the Owode Onirin division, who arrested the suspect.
The victim’s corpse was reportedly deposited in the Ikorodu General Hospital’s morgue.
The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Dolapo Badmos, confirmed the incident, saying the case had been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation and Intelligence Department, Yaba.
She said, “It was a resident that came to report at the station that the man fought with his wife. In the process, the woman stabbed him to death. The police visited and photographed the scene. The suspect was arrested and the corpse deposited in a morgue. The case is still under investigation as we await the result of the autopsy. Meanwhile, the case has been transferred to the SCIID.”

ONE LAGOS FIESTA: Ambode storms Agege, Red carpet treatment for Ikorodu people, Gifts glore in Badagry, Lighting and aesthetics in Epe

Lagos state Governor Akinwumi Ambode has flagged off the annual One Lagos Fiesta with a visit to the Lagos Ikeja division holding at Agege stadium on Saturday 24th December. The fiesta is being held simultaneously at five locations across the state which are Ikorodu, Epe, Badagry, Lagos Island and Ikeja and the shows are expected to hold for eight days, hence tagged a bolder and bigger edition.

Speaking at the event, the governor advised the youths to take advantage of the Lagos Employment Trust Fund to go into an entrepreneurial venture that will be mutually beneficial.
Indeed this year’s edition is bigger and bolder as all the five centers were professionally put together to reflect the capacity of the state in putting together an international showbiz event. Lagosians, especially residents of Badagry, Epe and Ikorodu were treated to a first class event production that will be the talk of the town for a long time.
Apart from the fact that the Ikorodu event was the number one trending topic on twitter on Saturday in Nigeria, it also recorded the highest turnout of people on the first day as the venue was filled to the brim. It was the only venue of all the divisions that has massive red carpet to welcome residents both to the popular and to the elevated VIP sections. People were however not disappointed with the production quality as many commended the quality of the butterfly GTT sound output which drew people to the venue from miles away. Famous fuji act Sulaimon popularly known as ATAWEWE and the Ikorodu traditional acts gave out their best that keep people wanting for more.
As for the Badagry residents, they praised the governor for upgrading the event to an international level while residents were also provided with free T-shirts with inscription ‘I Love Badagry’. Perhaps Badagry people are the most enthusiastic as they had a pre event party for the fiesta on the 23rd December before the official kick off the following day. Jaywon, Ara and fast finger deejay keep the audience on their toe all through the night.
If the aesthetics of the lightings and the sounds are to go by, then Epe division fits to the popular saying of Eko for Show. With 72 lights onstage and a 25,000 watt sound, the town was literally brought to the ground while residents throng into the venue in droves. If there should be an award for appreciative crowd, then the Epe people would readily pick it. Jubilations and pouring of accolades on their son who is the governor were the order of the day at the event. Practically the OLF has turned out to be the general celebration for the Epe people.

Victoria Island venue of the event is fast becoming the hub of a major concerts in the city and traditionally people were looking forward to the venue to be the boldest of all. Its major test will be on the new year eve when top Lagosians will gather to usher in the new year.

My Romance With Switzerland: Diary of a Reporter

http://metronewsng.blogspot.co.at/2016/12/my-romance-with-switzerland-diary-of.html?m=1No doubt the average Nigerian is no lover of Switzerland, despite their no intention to offend us, our leaders both military and politicians have always find this very beautiful and calm enclave a very safe place to hide treasures that were stolen from our public vault.

We read reports of several millions in foreign currency stolen from Nigeria and kept in banks in Switzerland! We hear of various banks that won't disclose the names of their rich clients, even almighty United States couldn't get them to release those funds.

Well, 4 days ago, we found ourselves in Zurich via Frankfurt for a 2 day visit. Our host as expected OPU Switzerland were on ground to welcome us to the country I love to now call "humble but deep in wealth" .The Zurich train station where the Ice Train dropped us is very neat, calm and organized.

Filled with curiosity, our hosts Akeem Salaam and Tola told us that modesty is the way of Switzerland, they love to keep things simple but inside of them lies mega structures or materials and wealth. It's the heart of Europe as it is boardered by 5 major EU countries including Germany, Italy, Austria, France among others, they boast that no homelessness in Switzerland, as the government ensures everybody is sheltered,same for feeding.

Their companies boast of best mechanism and Technology,in the field of Medicine, wares,and domestic materials, yet they are not load about it, we hear it is deliberate, as a matter of policy, Switzerland is home to peacekeepers, and they ensure that they are not at war with anybody.Their street and road surveillance is legendary and they even serve as security cover to high class net worth clients that can afford their services.

Don't forget that Genneva is also in Switzerland, the world Headquater of prominent agencies like Red Cross,United Nations are located there. You can call it the capital of world philanthropy.

A visit to the Nigeria Embassy in Bern, where we were warmly received by top Embassy officials. we were told that Switzerland is very peaceful with no record of a Yoruba man in prison and they behave themselves there, the road network is very smooth and connectivity Is easy.

During our stay, I didn't notice any form of racist look or comment and they were also very friendly, but I need to warn you incase u want to visit Switzerland, its about the most expensive area in Europe. It is also easy to make it big there if you venture into any legitimate business.
What I love most about the Switz environment is it's blend of ancient and modern structures. The suburb in Switzerland is the typical Europe village which the cities can stand tall with any modern day environment.
We visited the Parliament House in Bern, a beautiful structure that is breathtaking.

Our host, OPU Switzerland lodged us at a Swisshotel a 5star wonderful whose ambiance is very welcoming and warm. Let me add that one sure income earner for Switzerland is their effective train system, II is noticeable in the whole of Europe, even the city transit Is boosted by tramp buses moving large numbers of people and lowering traffic congestion.

NIGERIAN BREWERIES’ BOTTLE COMPOUND CAUGHT BY EARLY MORNING FIRE

There was a fire outbreak today at the empty bottle compound of the Lagos plant of Nigerian Breweries Plc in Iganmu, Lagos.

The fire which started early in the morning has been put under control by men of the Lagos State Fire Service supported by the Brewery fire team and other nearby corporate organisations.

There were no injuries or fatalities arising from the fire. Only empty bottles, plastic crates and some sections of the bottle holding bay were impacted by the fire. Brewery operations were not disrupted by the incidence.

We thank all stakeholders who have called to clarify or support the Lagos Brewery at this time.

Regards.

Kufre U. Ekanem

Corporate Affairs Adviser

Nigerian Breweries Plc

+234 7038992759; kufre.ekanem@heineken.com

Christmas: Offer Special Prayers for Peace, Gbenga Daniel Urge Nigerians

The immediate past governor of Ogun State and Asiwaju of Remo Christians, Otunba (Engr.) Gbenga Daniel has urged Nigerians to use the occasion of the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ to offer special prayers for peace to reign in the country and the world at large.

Daniel, who stated this in his Christmas message to the people, tasked both Christians and Muslims to rededicate themselves to love, peace, unity, equity and How justice to further strengthen their spiritual confrontation of the ills plaguing the society.

According to him, Christmas is the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ and the fulfilment of God's great love for humanity. "We must remain committed to the worthy ideals of the season and spread the joy of God to others irrespective of their religion affiliations".

"Despite myriad of challenges facing us as a nation in poverty, diseases, crimes, violence and insurgency, our continued existence as a nation was a great testimony that God is still with Nigeria and will continue to protect us the more if we come closer to him", he stated.

He also urged Christians to "celebrate the season with prudence and remember the less privileged as it is a season of humility, goodwill and selflessness as taught by the scriptures and must be observed with moderation and care for fellow citizens as we join others in recognising the renewed hope and reaffirmation of God's great love for the people of the world and Nigerians in particular".