PISSED: SUSAN PETERS LAMENT CHEAP BLACKMAIL

Nollywood actress, Susan Peters is bitter over what she decribed as a deliberate attempt by some people to tanish her image. According to the Benue State born actress, some people have been dropping her name with comments on blogs.
 Susan Peters posted on twitter "Please disregard any comments you see in my name on any blog. I have a gud relationship wit d press, so I am confident d truth is nearve been using her name to post comment on

SON TAKES 96 YEAR OLD FATHER TO COURT IN NIGERIA+SAYS FATHER MUST NOT BE ALLOWED TO REMARRY

 A United States-based Nigerian, Emeka Mazie, yesterday dragged his 96-year-old father to court for insisting to re-marry after the demise of his wife eight years ago. The suit with number HU/54/2012 filed before the Umuahia High Court 4, is presided over by Justice Agwu Kalu.

Counsel to the defendant, Miss Ebere Orji, told the court that her client, Chief Israel Mazie, and father of Emeka, had contracted a marriage with Ebere Ndubuka under the Marriage Act.

 She noted that his children from the

COCAINE WORTH N2.2 BILLION (NAIRA) SEIZED IN LAGOS-VANGUARD

 Operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, yesterday, arrested five suspected drug traffickers in connection with a large shipment of heroin worth N2.2 billion from Pakistan at the Tin Can Island Port, Lagos.

The agency also arrested a lady, (names withheld) over substance suspected to be cocaine at the Port Harcourt International Airport, Omagwa, Rivers State.

The lady allegedly ingested 839 grammes of the substance, and was arrested while on her way to board a London-bound Lufthansa Airline. She was

CHARLY BOY SAYS GAY STORY IS AN ATTEMPT TO RUIN HIM,ISSUES OFFICIAL PRESS STATEMENT

Charly Boy has issued an official statement describing the alleged story of his confession as gay as ill misconceived and a vicious attack directed at ruining him and the charly Boy brand.

 Read the official statement below sent to gistmaster today

"It is with a heavy heart that I issue this press release regarding the vile rumors published by National Mirror and Daily Independent, and which has now gone viral in over 100,000 websites and blogs in the last one week, to the effect I had confessed to being gay, and to being the head of the dreaded illuminati fraternity in Nigeria. In all my years as a Public Commentator, Human Rights Activist and Entertainer, I have never had to deal with such an insidious report that appears to be directly calculated to portray me in the worst possible light at a time such as this. The two leading newspapers did not just claim to be reporting an opinion; they actually reported these wicked lies as FACTS!

 

2.    2. For the avoidance of any doubt, I want to assure Nigerians that I am NOT gay and I am NOT part of any organization called the ‘illuminati’ in

THE FUNNIEST THING I EVER HEARD ON RADIO

I heard one of the funniest things in my life on radio this morning.I was listening to a radio programme on my way to keep an appointment this morning.Yes,i remember, the programme is called talk naija.The presenter said repeatedly that University of Ife was re-named

CHARLES TAYLOR GOES TO JAIL

Charles Taylor was today sentenced to 50 years in prison after the war crimes tribunal convicted him for crime against humanity. The former Liberian President was in exile in Nigeria durning the administration of Chief Olusegun Obasanjo before he was arrested.
  Charles Taylor was found guilty because he was a major sponsor of the civil war in Sierra Leone. Rebels that Charles Taylor sponsored raped and brutalised thousands of people before the war ended in 2002

LEAD CITY UNIVERSITY STUDENTS ACCUSE RAPPER 2SHOTZ OF SCAMMING THEM

 Some students of Lead City University, Ibadan have accused Nigerian born rapper, 2shotz of scamming them by collecting money and not performing at their show. The students said he kept on demading for money and they managed to pay him to the extent that when he eventually arrived his hotel room, he requested for six girls and drinks prior to performance and they gave him,Ony for him to sleep off at the end of the day.
  See how the students narrated their ordeal below 

 "This incidence happened on the 21^st of May 2012. An undisclosed name contacted 2shotz via twitter to be a part of a fashion show called “FashionMIX” to be held on the 24^th of May 2012. After the brief conversation, 2shotz

Student Protest As President Jonathan Change Unilag's name to MKO Abiola University

There is a mass protest going on in Lagos by students of the University of Lagos,Akoka,over the announcement by Nigeria's President Goodluck Jonathan that the name of the school has been changed to Moshood Abiola University.
Mr. President made the announcement in his presidential speech to the nation on Democracy day.
Students who are obviously angry that the name is not a tush one for their institution are already on the streets of Yaba and Fadeyi area.We will serve you updates later.
watch video below of Unilag protest below,thanks to Channels TV

TONTO DIKEH, INI EDO, DESMOND ELLIOT,OTHERS SPARKLE AS SHAN GEORGE PREMIERES NEW MOVIE

Tonto Dikeh

Sure Fashion designers and shoppers are beneficiaries of the massive revolution in Nollywood. At every outing, stars are always trying to look out do themselves with head turning signature dresses.
  Few days ago, actress Shan George did the movie premiere of her latest movie ' finding Goodluck' at Terrakulture, Victoria Island, Lagos. Galaxy of stars from the 'new' and 'old' school of the nigerian movie industry turned out to support of one their own. You can see some of the photos right here on gistmaster.

 The list includes Ini Edo, Kate Henshaw, Senator Daisy Danjuma, Inspector Oshodi Glover who represent IG, The Ibru Sisters, Desmond Elliot, Emem Isong, Monalisa Chinda, Chidi Mokeme, Rachel Oniga,Chico and Joy Ejiro, Lillian Bach,

FEMI KUTI CLOCKS 50:THE MAN, HIS MUSIC,FELA, WOMEN,CHILDREN,SMOKE AND PROFILE

 By Niyi Tabiti
 Not all children born in London are westernised.Femi Kuti is one of them. The undisputable king of afrobeat in Nigeria is 50 and many people are excited. He is well rooted in african traditional worship and you can't catch him wearing suit,shirt or tie.
I got a phone call durning the week from a close aide of the Grammy Awards three time nominated artiste that there is a line up of activities to celebrate Femi Kuti as he turned 50 on June 16.
  Femi is the first son and the second child of the late legendary King of afrobeat music, Fela Anikulapo Kuti. Fela was a

NIGERIA:TRAIN CRUSHES MOTOCYCLE RIDER,PASSENGER TODAY IN LAGOS-VANGUARD

 Tragedy struck in the early hours of Monday, when a fast-moving train crushed an unidentified Okada rider and his passenger at the railway crossing of the Nigerian Railway Corporation at   Guinness Road, off Agege Motor Road, Idimangoro, Agege, Lagos.

According to eyewitnesses, the accident occurred at 11.15 am, when the train, heading towards Oyingbo area of the state, crushed the duo. The Okada rider, who was said to be impatient,  was said to have ignored the instruction of the flagman, who had stopped vehicles and Okadas for the train to pass.

An eyewitness said: “He (Okada man) had made a quick dash but was unlucky, as all of a sudden, we heard the sound of broken bones and saw dismembered body scattered all around the area.”

When Vanguard visited the scene, the badly crushed Boxer model motorcycle was seen at a corner, while the corpse of the passenger was covered with a cellophane, awaiting removal by the police.

The dismembered body of the Okada rider, who was said to be a Malian , had been packed and taken away to an undisclosed place.

The tragedy led to a gridlock on the axis, as sympathisers bemoaned the fate of the victims. It will be recalled that a similar incident occurred recently at Ikeja Along railway crossing, where another impatient Okada rider and passenger were crushed-Olasunkanmi Akoni

WEDDINGS IN NOLLYWOOD:WHO IS NEXT?GENEVIEVE, RITA DOMINIC OTHERS ON THELINE UP

Nollywood has never had it so good.The number of weddings among actors and actresses in the last one year has been unprecedented. Top nollywood acts like Stephanie Okereke, Ini Edo,Mosun Filani, Bukky Wright, Chinedu Ikedieze,Mike Ezuruonye,Dakore Egbuson,Uche Jombo, Funke  Akindele and others have suprised us with their flamboyant weddings. Want to know who is next?Could it Genevieve Nnaji, Rita Dominic,Monalisa Chinda...Click here to read more on Niyi Tabiti's blog

MORE SURPRISE WEDDINGS TO HIT NOLLYWOOD SOON

By Niyi Tabiti
 It is wedding celebration mood all over the place in Nollywood and i think most of us are just happy for our friends who are taking the bold step into holy matrimony in the industry.The wedding jamboree in Nollywood started with the likes of our very own Ini Edo, the sexy actress whose figure 8 continue to wet the appetite of

CHARLY BOY DENIES GAY AND ILLUMINATI STORY,VOWS TO TAKE NEWSPAPER TO COURT

  Controversial entertainer and head honcho of the popular Charly Boy show,Charles Oputa has denied the recent report making the rounds that he is gay and head of illuminati in Nigeria. Charly Boy described the info published in some newspaper as total misinformation. Only a lunatic

WEDDING:FUNKE AKINDELE'S FIRST OFFICIAL KISS WITH HUSBAND

Funke Akindele having her first official kiss with husband Kenny Oloyede at the wedding. Did i hear you say they are already used to it?lol..Years back, most people used to be concerned about what happened between couples in the bedroom on their wedding night. These days, even most couple get so tired after various activities of the day that they forget to even do anything.Congrats to our own Funke.
To see more photos from the wedding click here

FUNKE AKINDELE WEDDING PHOTOS+INI EDO, GENEVIEVE NNAJI AND OTHERS GRACED THE ALL STAR WEDDING

The buzz of the day in naija is about the celebrity wedding of humorous movie star, Funke Akindele to Kehinde Oloyede Almaroof.That is what everyone seems to be talking about. Not forgetting that soccer star,Osaze Odemigwe also got married to his British girlfriend today.

 Funke Akindele's wedding was loaded with

CAUGHT IN THE ACT:COUPLES WHO DID IT AT AY SHOW LIVE!

        From experience in covering events through the years i realised that the Lagos crowd are just as crazy as their counterparts in the western world. They can go a step, another step and just another step to excite you.Thanks to several event organizers who have been making sure that there

MAN WHOSE WIFE DELIVERED QUADRUPLETS GETS EMPLOYMENT-VANGUARD

Imo Transport Company has offered automatic employment to Mr. Matthew Ukuegbu, the father of a set of quadruplets recently delivered in Owerri.

Managing Director of the company, Mr. Emeka Duru, said in Owerri yesterday, that the gesture was to enable the parents to face the enormous challenges of raising the babies. Duru noted that the challenges before the family had “quadrupled” owing to the birth of the babies, adding that the company was moved by the poor living standard of the couple.

He also announced that the company had paid the medical bills incurred for the birth, and donated an undisclosed amount of money to the parents for the upkeep of the babies.

In his reaction, Ukwuegbu commended the company for the gesture, pledging to be dedicated to his new job.

The Chief Medical Director, Federal Medical Center, Owerri, where the babies were delivered, Dr. Angela Uwakwem, commended the management of the transport company for the assistance.

Nigeria-Three Weeks,Three Public Holidays

It is raining season here in Nigeria.We are enjoying the cool breeze and the rain except for the bad roads and water flow which is making movement a bit difficult. Some people have to relocate from their houses because raining season is usually a difficult period for them.Their homes are usually turned into 'emergency' swimming pool.

In Lagos,areas mostly affected are usually part of ikorodu,Ijora Badia and so on. These people need more government attention.

Between now and June 12,Nigerians would observe three public holidays. First would be on May 27 known as children's day.Yes,it fell on Sunday, a work free day but the public holiday will be observed by children on Monday May 28.The following day will be a general public holiday-May 29 will be declared as work free day because the government named it democracy day.Remember 29 May 1999 was the day democracy returned to Nigeria after many years of civil rule. However,Lagos State government will declare June 12 as another public holiday.It is in honour of Bashorun MKO Abiola,the billionaire believed to have won the June 12 presidential election that was annuled by Babangida.Lagos State government believe that is the 'authentic' democracy day.

Enjoy and rock the holidays but pray NEPA supply electricity so that you can watch your favorite movies! 

Meanwhile you see the side links or return to the home page to read latest news,celeb stories and photos

Cheers,

-Niyi Tabiti

JUSTICE SALAMI REMAIN SUSPENDED UNTIL...-ADOKE

The minister for Justice and Attorney General of the federation in Nigeria,Mr. Muhammed Adoke have reacted to the protracted delay in reinstating Justice Salami as President Court of Appeal.
Justice Salami was suspended from the exalted position last year following recommedations from the National Judicial Council that he violated certain norms of the legal profession following his public outrage with former Chief Justice of the federation,Justice Alu. He has been recalled by the same NJC that suspended him. The only thing remaing is for President Goodluck Jonathan to sign the recommendation.
However, Adoke speaking on behalf of the president at a ministerial press briefing said, Salami will not get his position back until a case pending in court is determined. Adoke noted that the a case was instituted against his recall by a group the same day NJC recommend his recall to Jonathan.
But Nigerians within and in diaspora refused to agree with the federal government,insisting that the same government refused to respect the rule of law when Salami went to court to stop his removal from office.
-By Niyi Tabiti

’We want to celebrate our celebrities’’-Lydia Babatunde

…as Lee Magazine and Koga Lounge hosts Gbenga Adeyinka, Bimbo Akintola,
Funsho Adeolu and others Entertainment and style magazine, Lee in partnership with entertainment
powerhouse, Koga will host the celebrity celebrants born in the month of
May during its Monthly Birthday Party (MBP) at the upscale hangout joint,
Koga Lounge at Oregun, Lagos on Monday, 28th May, 2012 by 8pm.

The MBP is a monthly event put together by Lee Magazine to celebrate
industry people who were born in a particular month of the year and it has
been on for over a year now.
This month's edition is set to celebrate a host of industry people who at
some point in May marked their birthday and will celebrate birthdays of the
likes of Chief Dele Momodu, Gbenga Adeyinka, Eldee, Funsho Adeolu, Bimbo
Akintola, Ronke Odusanya, Eldee,Tunde wear it all, Tony Nwakolo, Uche -Ugo,
Adewade, Kaha ,Elenu, Rashdimu, Mcshakara, Yomi Fabiyi, Yomi Adeyeri, Adol,
Adams Ibrahim, 5mics, ketchup and a host of others, these are people who
have excelled in their chosen fields of endeavours.
The brain behind the MBP, Lydia Babatunde spoke about this month's event
and what the people coming for the event should expect 'there is need to
celebrate industry people all the time because they have done all of us
proud in their respective professions and they are never tired of putting
smiles on our faces as far as entertainment is concerned. So, devoting a
day to celebrate these icons is not too much to do for them. It will be a
night of fun, excitement and undiluted entertainment to say the least. We
implore people to come as early as possible to avoid the rush''.

"WE MADE LOVE AND WE BOTH ENJOYED IT"-KING WHO IS STANDING TRIAL ON RAPE CHARGES

 The embattled Alowa of Ilowa in Obokun Local Government Area of Osun State, Oba Adebukola Alli,  standing trial before an Osogbo High Court for alleged rape of an ex- corps member, yesterday, got off the hook on three of the four charges against him.

Justice Oyejide Falola dismissed three charges out of the four counts preferred against the monarch for the failure of the prosecutor to substantiate the allegation before the court.

Alli, who was accompanied to court by his wife, had, since 2010, been facing four counts charge of rape, kidnap,

THE DRESS THAT GOT KELLY BROOK 1 MILLION EUROS A NIGHT STAND PROPOSAL!!!

She look absolute gorgeous.Many couldnt keep their eyes off. Just any man would have loved to have Kelly Brook close to their arms but no one was too sure to sacrifice their homes or even a car just to have Kelly Brooks for a one night stand.According to The Mirror, a businessman simply known as

THREE MINISTERS ESCAPE DEATH IN ABUJA TODAY

Providence smiled on Nigerians on Monday when a man identified as John Akpamu  was arrested with three hand grenades and some rounds of ammunition at the Radio House, Abuja,  venue of the Ministerial briefing by the Ministry of Sports on their performance in the last one year

According to a report monitored on Channels TV, in Lagos, the security officer in charge of the Radio House building confirmed the arrest saying “we arrested him with black bags containing three hand grenades and 37 live munitions. We snatched the bag from him at the gate as he was entering the compound at the gate.”

Three ministers: Attorney General and Justice minister, Bello Adoke, Aviation Stella Oduah and Youth Development and National Sports Commission Bolaji Abdullahi, were the ones on hand to present their score cards in the last one year.

The annual briefing which involves a daily briefing by all the federal ministries on their performance, commenced a fortnight ago.

-Daily Independent

I GAVE HIM ONCE, HE WANTS MORE,WHAT SHOULD I DO?

Click link below to read
 I GAVE HIM ONCE, HE WANTS MORE,WHAT SHOULD I DO?

PHOTO:UCHE JOMBO AND HUSBAND,KENNEY RODRIGUEZ

Love is sweet and sure actress Uche Jombo is enjoying every bit of it at the moment with Kenney Rodriguez.The two got married recently and it was devoid of all the pomp and ceremony that usually mark such union.
CLICK HERE TO READ MORE

AT LAST:PHOTO OF UCHE JOMBO AND HUSBAND,KENNEY RODRIGUEZ

Finally here is the picture of Uche Jombo and her newly wedded husband,Kenney Rodriguez having a nice time together.Though Uche initially denied that she got married after the media reported same but those close to her have confirmed that indeed she got married. Friends of the top nollywood acts have also been sending congratulary messages to her.

Click here to see photos of Uche Jombo's eye popping birthday in Lagos

Uche Jombo who said she is still in her early 30s is from Abia State, Nigeria. She read mathematics and statistics at the University of Calabar,Cross River state. She later proceeded to the Federal University of Technology,Minna where she studied Computer programming.Her first movie role was in 1999 when she debuted in Visa to Hell.She produced her own movie 'Damage' with a line up of good actors.

Uche Jombo's profile or biography will not be complete without mentioning her wondrous outing as an actress and co-producer of 'Hustler' a comic packed nollywood movie. Click here to see photos from Nollywood Hustler premiere in Lagos

Uche was in a relationship with Uche Ikechukw for many years before they decided to go their seperate ways. Though it was speculated that Uche even got an engagement ring from the footballer at a time

DAVIDO'S LOVER UNVEILED:SEE PHOTOS

The beautiful lady in the life of Davido, the omo baba olowo crooner has been unveiled.According to Maestromedia, she is from Ghana,pretty and has the ears of the fast rising

WIZKID, 9ICE TO PERFORM AT SUNNY ADE AND OBEY'S CONCERT IN LAGOS

Like you all already know, Sunday, May 27, 2012 is the D-day all roads would be leading to the Harbour Point Event Centre, Wilmot Road, Victoria Island. On that day by 2P.M, what has taken all of 35 years to plan and to make happen would finally be seen by 800 guests only.

Those lucky enough to gather to watch 2 of the biggest musical legends of our time play in the persons of Chief Commander Ebenezer Obey and King Sunny Ade, would be

RITA DOMINIC PREGNANT FOR RAMSEY? SEE PHOTO

Award winning actress, Rita Dominic has carved a niche for self in the movie industry. She is regarded as one of the few fashion sophisticate we have in Nollywood. Trust, she is got good followers too. Just as nollywood is entering one 'wedding' season to the other, many

GENEVIEVE NNAJI TOPS 5 HOTTEST CELEBRITY WOMEN LIST

 

Mirror, Mirror on the wall; who is the Most Gorgeous of them all?!

From brains to busts to business sense and butts, perfect manners to a polished image; sultry demeanour to striking confidence; incredibly sexy, and a flawless sense of style. Brilliant success in their fields, and good public persona…these are the Top 5 hottest Celebrity Women on this side of the planet (in no particular order)!

Genevieve Nnaji:
It seems “Ms. Nigerian Sweetheart”, Genevieve Nnaji, has been hugging the spotlight forever. We never get tired of seeing her beautiful smile on blogs and on the pages of magazines. Genevieve gets more attractive with age. She’s the girl-next-door with beauty that

ACTOR, WIFE WELCOME SET OF TWINS THIS WEEK

Years after relocating to the United Kingdom, Nigeria movie lovers still remember the exploits of Yemi Awomodu in Yoruba movies. He played several lead roles in Yoruba movies, especially those linked with romance.Well the profile of Yemi Awomodu is our focus now.The latest news is that the actor and his wife are celebrating the delivery of their new set of twins. They joined another Nollywood actor, Desmond  Elliot as 'baba Ibeji'
Congrats!
Photo courtesy Tope Brass
Click here to see photos of Desmond Elliot at Emem Isong's movie premiere

LOLADE CARDOSO AND LADI ALAKIJA's WEDDING TRAIN MOVES TO LONDON

After the classy engagement between Ololade Cardoso and Oladipupo Alakija in Lagos, the main event will now hold in August at the London Hilton Hotel on Park Lane.Lolade is the son of former Lagos commissioner, Yemi Cardoso and Abimbola Cardoso (Daughter of Late Chief TOS Benson).The groom's parents are Modupe and Folorunsho Alakija, owner of Rose of Sharon.Both mothers are from

LANRE NZERIBE ROCKS NEW MASERATI IN LAGOS

 Ex- lover of former Nigeria Television Authority director, Grace Egbagbe and Folake Odutola,Lanre Nzeribe  is reportedly painting the city of Lagos red with his new maserati car. We gathered he just took delivery of the eye popping automobile. He was spotted at

WEDDING LATEST:THE MAN IN FUNKE AKINDELE's LIFE

That Funke Akindele, the wondrous actress who charmed us with her well interpreted role in the comedy movie 'Jenifa', Return of Jenifa and Omo Ghetto- is no more news. In fact, she is expected to kick start activities leading to the wedding properon May 26 with her introduction.

The latest news here is about the man she intend to marry. We gathered that he is a politician, a businessman and a staunch muslim. He is Alhaji Kehinde...CLICK HERE TO READ MORE

MEET FUNKE AKINDELE'S HUSBAND TO BE

The news of Funke Akindele's wedding is the latest talk in town. Though plans have been on the way for sometime but no one is sure about the identity of the man she intended to marry.

Latest news about the actress have however unveiled Funke Akindele's husband to be. He is Alhaji Kehinde Oloyede Almaroof.He is a

MULTIMILLIONAIRE ATTORNEY KILLS SELF INSIDE LUXURY BENZ

A very rich and notable lawyer, Mvuseni Ngubane lost his life last weekend after commiting suicide inside one of his luxury cars-A mercedes Benz car -after his family members left their mansion for a Sunday afternoon outing.

Ngubane who is known to have handled many prominent cases is well known  in South Africa .Just last year, he was appointed as the secretary of the arms deal commission by President Jacob Zuma.

Premiliminary investigation shows that Ngubane,55, kills himself by firing a fatal shot through his mouth.He was found in a pool of his blood by his wife and daughter when they arrived home.

No one could say at this moment why the wealthy lawyer committed suicide because he has having it so good in his profession. The police have also seen the footage of close circuit cameras (ccv) in his residence but they are not saying anything at the moment for security reasons.

JACOB CROSS STAR TAKING A SHOT ON WIKI THIS MONTH

Jacob Cross star and model, Kendra Oluchi Etufunwa is taking a shot at the wikipedia this month.Not many celebs in Nigeria knows the importance of the online encyclopedia so its just natural that she should be credited as one of the exceptional cases. In other parts of the world it is no big deal. Did I hear you say most Nigerian actors don't even have a website?

The 25 years old model contested in the 2006 edition of most beautiful girl in Nigeria. She has also appeared in South African Elle magazine,

US BANKS FREEZES NIGERIAN EMBASSY ACCOUNTS

US Banks freeze Nigeria Embassy accounts over suspicious activities- The accounts of the Nigerian Embassy in Washington DC and the Nigerian Mission in New York might have been frozen by the Bank of America and Wells Fargo, two leading financial institutions in the United States of America over alleged money laundering activities. Sources informed African Examiner that the action of the banks was sequel to a suspicious money transfer remitted to the United States from Nigeria. Following the suspicious transactions in favor of the accounts between February and May this year, the two banks requested the mission to explain the source of the funds which the Mission could not immediately avail the financial institutions. Consequently the sanction had adversely impacted on the finances of the Mission which has made it extremely difficult for the Embassy to pay its operational bills and staff salaries. These monies wired from Nigeria were aside from the regular money that normally comes into the embassy accounts to run its operation and other official activities. Our source said the embassy was unable to provide satisfactory explanation for about $3.6 million that was wired into the accounts prompting the banks to freeze the accounts till further notice. African Examiner also learnt that these monies are allegedly wired into the accounts of the embassy by some

FIRS ARREST 3 CEOS OVER N2.17 BILLION TAX EVASION-THE NATION

The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) has arrested Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) of three companies in Lagos for alleged failure to remit N2.17 billion taxes.

In a statement at the weekend by the FIRS Director of Communications and Liaison Department, Mr. Emmanuel Obeta, the agency said the enforcement drive, led by an Assistant Director of Legal and Prosecution Department, Mr. Abu Stephen, is aimed at recovering arrears of taxes accruing to the government from Company Income Tax (CIT), Education Tax (EDT), Withholding Tax (WHT) and Value Added Tax (VAT).

He said the FIRS served many notices on the companies to pay their outstanding tax liabilities or be compelled to do so.

The statement added that the companies and their liabilities are: Pivot Engineering Limited, N609,911,992:36; Reliance Telecommunications Limited, N592,756,627:00; HITV Limited, N309,500,065:55; and UTC Nigeria Plc, N277,589,163:74

Others are: Sweet Sensation Confectionary Limited, N155,483,013:00; Entertainment Highway Limited, N197,444,964:55 and John Holt Nigeria Limited, N33,073,487:52.

The statement reads: “However, some of the companies had admitted their outstanding tax liabilities when the enforcement team called at their offices. For instance, Mr. Opedemowo Olayemi, the Chief Accountant of Sweet Sensation Confectionary Limited, said the company was owing N60 million for VAT alone.

“Also, Mr. Dada Arokoyu of UTC and Mr. Muyiwa Fojude of Pivot agreed that their companies had outstanding tax liability to settle with the FIRS.

“Similarly, when the team visited HITV Ltd, Entertainment Highway Ltd and Reliance Communications Ltd, their offices were under lock and key, but security at the gates attended to the enforcement team.

“At HITV and Entertainment the team was told that the GTBank sealed off the premises following a court order. Reliance Communication was sealed upon the directive of the Chairman of the company.

“The arrest is a warning to other organisations and individuals on the need to ensure deductions and remittance of their tax obligation as provided by Part V1, Section 40 of the FIRS Establishment Act 2007.

It states: “Any person who, being obliged to deduct any tax under this act or the laws listed in the First Schedule to this Act, but fails to deduct or having deducted, fails to pay to the Service within 30 days from the date the amount was deducted or the time the duty to deduct arose, commits an offence and shall, upon conviction, be liable to pay the tax withheld or not remitted in addition to a penalty of 10 per cent of the tax withheld or not remitted per annum and interest at the prevailing Central Bank of Nigeria minimum re-discount rate and imprisonment for period of not more than three years.’’

-The nation

AIR NIGERIA KICKS OFF LAGOS-LONDON FLIGHT ON WEDNESDAY

Jimoh Ibrahim, a Nigerian billionaire,politician and chairman of Air Nigeria is very excited at the moment. Air Nigeria (formerly Virgin Nigeria) just took delivery of its much awaited A300-200 aircraft.

The flight is to serve the purpose of flying passengers from the Murtala Muhammed International Airport to London airport. Ibrahim and the MD of Air Nigeria flew on board the airport to Lagos via Egypt some hours ago.The arrival of the aircraft was marked with a  short ceremony. The first passenger flight has been scheduled for wednesday.

Known as 'Mr. Risk Taker', Mr. Ibrahim is also a motivational speaker and publisher of Newswatch magazine.

FUNKE AKINDELE IS GETTING MARRIED THIS MAY-REPORT

Report says that top Yoruba Actress, Miss Funke Akindele would be getting married this year to theman of her dreams.Activities leading to the happy union is expected to start this May 26. Click here to read read the full story and see picture

RIHANNA'S LATEST PHOTO:HOT OR HAWWT?

                   Rihanna wearing a white thigh high slit dress at LA premiere of the film 'battleship'.What is left to the imagination?You better ask Riri!I like the dress.The thigh high is enough to make a lot of guys go high.Well done Rihanna

INI EDO, TONI PAYNE DENIES PREGNANCY TALE

Online media has become the first spot for breaking news and at the same time the rumour factory.Actress Ini Edo denies that she is pregnant as insinuated in some quarters.You can also click here to read how Toni Payne the ex-wife of Alapomeji crooner, 9ice showed off her second pregnant at Tuface Idibia's last concert.

AFRICA FASHION WEEK LONDON MODEL CASTING IN LAGOS

Africa Fashion Week London (AFWL) announces 3rd and 4th of August 2012 will be the date for the sparkle event at London's Spitalfields Market Hall. Following the unprecedented success of last year’s event, AFWL has relocated to London Spitalfields, recent winners of a Best New Open Space award. This year’s event is set to be bigger and better with a larger venue, more designers and tons more exhibitors. This will be the first large scale event  to showcase UK and non-UK based seasoned and emerging fashion designers inspired by Africa.

  This year casting for models in Nigeria will be held at French/Nigeria based photographer Emilio Conti in his Villa, No7, Adeyemi Lawson Street Ikoyi, Lagos.

All models from different agency are invited. Models should come with their portfolio or Zcard along with them.

All models selected should see Joan Okorodudu CEO, ISIS Models after the casting.

The casting time: 10AM to 4PM

Date: 12 of May 2012.

However, Ronke Ademiluyi, CEO of Africa Fashion Week London says:

‘We were astounded by the level of support shown to AFWL last year. This time round, we are taking things to a higher level, with a bigger venue it’s hoped the event will reach a higher magnitude.  By promoting African fashion globally we hope to integrate African countries into the fashion industry and also contribute to the reduction of poverty by developing the fashion and textile industry’

The showcase debuted last year with an impressive turnout of over 4,700 attendees, the two day extravaganza created an unparalleled platform for over 50 international designers to showcase their collections. With the Olympics this year, all corners of the world will be focusing on what London has to offer, on and off the race tracks. The time is now to highlight Africa as a frontrunner in the international fashion community.

Spitalfields Market is surrounded by independent shops, cafes, bars and awarding winning restaurants such as Canteen, Galvin La Chapell and Giraffe to name a few. With a capacity of over 10,000 visitors, Spitalfields is the perfect location for a two day display of fashion, art, music and food.

LIZZY ANJORIN BUYS 6 MILLION NAIRA LAND ROVER JEEP

Yoruba actress, Liz Anjorin has joined the list of top actresses in Nigeria whose love for automobile has been on the rise.

Niyi Tabiti blog gathered that the sexy actress just acquired a glittering 2011 Land Rover jeep. Those close to her said she bought the vehicle for about N6 million (Naira). This is coming less than a year after she also bought her Nissan Murano and weeks after a lavish burial for her departed mother.

It would be recalled that several top actresses such as

MARK ZUCKERBERG KICKS OFF FACEBOOK IPO

Facebook Inc CEO Mark Zuckerberg fielded questions about the No. 1 social network's slowing revenue growth and its $1 billion purchase of Instagram as he kicked off a cross-country roadshow to promote the company's $10 billion initial public offering.

Wearing his trademark "hoodie" sweatshirt, jeans and sneakers, the 27-year-old chief executive said he would do the Instagram deal again if he had to, according to attendees at the event.

Hundreds of investors showed up for the presentation at New York's Sheraton Hotel, which was closed to the media, on Monday.

The world's largest social network aims to raise about $10.6 billion, dwarfing the coming-out parties of tech companies like Google Inc and granting it a market value close to Amazon.com Inc's.

The 8-year-old social network that began as Zuckerberg's Harvard dorm room project indicated an IPO range of $28 to $35 a share on Thursday, which would value the company at $77 billion to $96 billion.

The size of the IPO reflects the company's growth and bullish expectations about its money-making potential as a hub for everything from advertising to commerce. Many investors say they expect Facebook to raise its offer price-range as the roadshow progresses from New York to major cities such as Chicago, Boston and San Francisco.

Amid the hoopla of one of the most closely watched IPOs in years are persistent concerns about Facebook's longer-term growth and Zuckerberg's majority control.

Zuckerberg, who will have roughly 57 percent voting control after the IPO, personally forged the deal to acquire mobile app maker Instagram in a matter of days last month with little involvement from Facebook's board of directors, according to media reports.

Asked about the deal by an attendee at the event, Zuckerberg said Facebook's management had discussed a possible Instagram acquisition at length in several meetings. Facebook decided to act when it saw Instagram's user data cross a "tipping point" from which they believed it would grow significantly, he said.

He said Facebook moved quickly to strike a deal when it became clear that Instagram was open to being acquired.

Zuckerberg was accompanied by finance chief David Ebersman, who was wearing a suit and tie, and Chief Operating Officer Sheryl Sandberg.

Investors managed to ask five questions during the event on Monday, including a query about Facebook's potential plans to enter China, the world's largest Internet market by users.

Zuckerberg noted that Facebook was blocked in China - a situation experienced by several popular U.S. websites such as YouTube and Twitter. Sandberg added that the company would be willing to sit down with Chinese government officials and discuss partnerships in the country.

Facebook's emergence as a cultural phenomenon whose beginnings were depicted in the fictionalized 2010 film "The Social Network" added a palpable level of energy and buzz to Monday's event.

One investor was overheard joking that the event should have been held in New York's Madison Square Garden, home of the Knicks basketball team and a standard venue for rock concerts.

Investors had formed a line outside the Sheraton Hotel about an hour before the roadshow started on Monday morning, as a nearby media throng awaited the arrival of Facebook executives and elicited inquiries from curious passers-by.

"This is unlike anything we've ever seen," said another investor who was at the event.

Morgan Stanley banker Michael Grimes took the stage to begin the formal presentation as the audience of investors lunched on Cobb salad, ice tea and cookies, attendees said.

With 900 million users, Facebook is challenging established Web businesses such as Google Inc and Yahoo Inc for consumers' online time and advertising dollars.

Susquehanna Financial Group analyst Herman Leung said in a note to investors on Monday that he expected Facebook's revenue to grow 40 percent this year and 33 percent in 2013.

He said the $28 to $35 range for Facebook shares was an "attractive" valuation that provided a "compelling entry point" for investors.

In a separate note published Sunday, Pivotal Research Group analyst Brian Wieser put a $30 price target on shares of Facebook.

"Our conversations with investors to date suggest that concerns around revenue growth and the absence of mobile monetization will linger for some time," said Wieser.

But, he added, "we would not be surprised if the stock trades up above the IPO price on retail interest in the company over the near term."

-Yahoo!

(Reporting by Nadia Damouni and Olivia Oran, with additional reporting by Alexei Oreskovic and Alistair Barr in San Francisco; Editing by Richard Chang)

SULTRY ACTRESS INI EDO PREGNANT,PHILLIP DOTS OVER EXPECTANT MOTHER

Another good news from Nollywood.Actress Ini Edo is reportedly pregnant and expecting her first child for husband, Phillip Ehigwina. Click here to read more

SEXY ACTRESS INI EDO PREGNANT

The latest edition of Enquirer magazine came with a lot of juicy stories. Perhaps, one of the stories that would interest movie lovers is the latest gist that actress Ini Edo is pregnant.

 Ini, who got married at a tradtional wedding in Eket, Akwa Ibom State and later a white wedding in Houston, Texas in 2009 is one of Nigeria's most talked about actresses. She also belong to the A-list league in nollywood.She is a glo ambassador and recently, she became a producer with support of Emem Isong and others.

The magazine is already on the newsstand.