QUEEN BEATRIX OF NETHERLAND ABDICATES; HANDS CROWN TO FIRST SON

75 year old Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands abdicated today April 30th after 33 years as queen and handed over her thrown and crown to her eldest son at a ceremony that held on the balcony at the Royal Palace in Amsterdam. 46 year old Willem-Alexander will be the first King of the Netherlands since 1890. The former queen will now be addressed as Princess Beatrix.

MAN SENTENCED TO 45 YEARS IN PRISON FOR STEALING GOVERNOR'S PHONE

An Osogbo High Court yesterday sentenced a 31-year-old man, Kelvin Igha-Igbodalo to 45 years imprisonment without an option of fine for stealing a Sony Ericson phone belonging to Osun State Governor, Mr. Rauf Aregbesola.
Igha-Igbodalo is alleged to have stolen Aregbesola’s phone during the swearing-in ceremony of the governor in 2010. The convict used the phone to dupe many unsuspecting people by directing them to pay money into a particular bank account on pretext that it was the governor's directive. Click to continue.
The ex-convict was eventually arrested and charged with six counts of conspiracy, obtaining properties by false pretence, stealing, impersonation and advance free fraud. Igha-Igbodalo pleaded guilty to the charges slammed against him and Justice Oyejide Falola sentenced him to 45 years imprisonment to run concurrently without an option of fine.
Daily Trust learnt that the ex-convict had earlier served six years imprisonment at Ikoyi prison in Lagos over a murder charge leveled against him.
According to the charge sheet, “Kelvin and others now at large in May 24th, 2011 impersonated the governor by using his phone with intent to defraud, and obtained the sum of N500,000 from his royal majesty, Oba Gabriel Adekunle Aromolaran, Owa-Obokun of Ijesha land”.
The prosecution, Mr. Biodun Badiora, told the court that the convict committed an offence contrary to section 8(c) and is punishable under section 1(3) of the Advance Free Fraud and other related offences Act, 2006.
Counsel to the convict, Mr. Ameachi Ngwu, prayed the court to commit the convict to community service instead of incarseration.

Source: Daily Trust

BALOTELLI TELLS REAL MADRID: 'WIN AND YOU CAN HAVE SEX WITH MY GIRLFRIEND'

MARIO Balotelli has apparently taunted Real Madrid's stars – telling Ronaldo and his teammates they can sleep with his stunning girlfriend if they still make it to the Champions League Final.
The controversial striker allegedly made the bizarre boast about gorgeous Fanny Neguesha as Real look almost certain to be dumped out of Europe's premier footie competition.
Germans Borussia Dortmund thrashed Real 4-1 in the first leg of their semi-final last week with Robert Lewandowski netting all four.
Now Balotelli, 22, is said to have told Spanish sports newspapers: “If Real Madrid come back in Champions League, I’ll let my girlfriend sleep with them!”

The teams face each other again tomorrow night - with the Germans looking nailed on to make the final at Wembley.
The Italian forward has previously spoken about his blossoming relationship with Neguesha, last month telling Vanity Fair that the Belgian model is the “first woman I feel comfortable with”.
Cristiano Ronaldo scored Real’s only goal and doubts remain over his fitness for tomorrow’s second-leg at the Santiago Bernabeu in Madrid.
Meanwhile, Balotelli continues to dazzle with AC Milan in Serie A after leaving Manchester, grabbing ten goals since his Premier League exit.
He began dating Fanny last year after breaking up with ex-fiancee Raffaella Fico.
The Sun revealed last April that he cheated on Raffaella with hooker Jenny Thompson. Two months later his Italian ex announced she was pregnant.

Source: The Sun

MICHAEL JORDAN GETS MARRIED

Michael Jordan got married over the weekend, with Tiger woods, Spike Lee and Patrick Ewing among those attending the NBA Hall of Famer's wedding in Palm Beach, Fla.

Jordan married 35-year-old former model Yvette Prieto on Saturday, manager Estee Portnoy told The Associated Press on Sunday.

The 50-year-old Jordan owns the Charlotte Bobcats

Nearly 300 guests were presented they exchanged vows. The reception took place at a private golf club in Jupiter designed by Jack Nicklaus. Jordan owns a home near the course.

Entertainment included DJ MC Lyte, singers K'Jon, Robin Thicke and Grammy Award winner Usher and The Source, an 18-piece band.

The six-time NBA champion and Prieto met five years ago and were engaged last December.

Jordan has three children with former wife Juanita Vanoy. The couple's divorce was finalized in December 2006.

LOL: ROBIN VAN PERSIE ATTEMPTS TO WALK INTO 'HOME' DRESSING ROOM AT THE EMIRATES

Well....its understandable having spent 8 years at the Emirates.

VIDEO PREMIERE: IYANYA Ft. WIZKID- SEXY MAMA

Triple MG presents one of the biggest music collaborations in recent times – IYANYA featuring WIZKID in the official video for the monster track - SEXY MAMA, directed by Sesan.
SEXY MAMA music video is literarily your wildest dream come true, featuring live from the hottest known catalogues; some of the creamiest and sexiest ladies dancing to one of the biggest club bangers recently released.
From the beginning, some ends are already decided as this is indisputably an award winning video. SEXY MAMA music video is definitely going to hit the music charts; both locally & internationally.
You think you’ve seen the biggest of them all? This might just prove you wrong. Enjoy!

PS: The video for Iyanya’s JOMBOLO track feat. Flavour, off his latest album DESIRE is in the works as he makes his final stop in Canada to end his very successful tour in the USA.

NDANI TV: BANKY. W ON THE JUICE

Banky W (Olubankole Wellington) a.k.a Mr Capable, a.k.a King of the Lagos party is one of Africa's top R&B act. He is Chairman of Empire Mates Entertainment E.M.E. Home to top artist like Wizkid, Skales, Shaydee, Niyola and Dj Exclusive. His sweet soulful music is loved by many in the african continent. He is adored by the ladies and envied by a lot of men probably because he gets ladies attention with his looks and music. Banky gives us "The Juice" on his music, relationships, rumoured split with Wizkid and a inside look at what he could have done if he was not singing. Enjoy this rare open interview with Toolz as usual at the helms.

OUR CELEBRATED GRIEF

The recent surge of rape and molestation in Nigeria seem to have sparked my interest, especially because I was a repeat victim of this societal degradation; yet the lackadaisical attitude with which this menace is treated is disturbingly sad. Culprits seem to have graduated from committing this act secretly to videoing the scene and broadcasting it for the world to see. This dimension should be paid close attention to before we loose it! I have wondered if it is when the situation becomes as unbearable, rampant, and seemingly unsolvable as it is now the case in Delhi before we start to make noise and fight? Won’t that be yelling over spilled milk, or trying to pluck out a feather from an eagle?

This societal menace, which is gradually becoming somewhat dismissive and an acceptable part of our system - faintly discussed and unprofessionall­y handled, with no data to depict its extent, has so crept into our very fabrics as a nation, thereby challenging and threatening the very essence of not just the victim, but also our collective existence. These victims, mostly females, prefer to remain silent and anonymous for fear of loosing their social, religious, family, and professional reputation; or for fear of being hurt by the culprit. Yet, one victim's silence is an open-door permission to several other existing and would-be culprits to follow suit. The next victim could be any one!

It is worthy of note that rape and molestation differ in meaning. While ‘rape’ is the unlawful compelling of a person through physical force or duress to have sexual intercourse; ‘molestation’ on the other hand, is when one is sexually touched, made to touch, or carry out sexual acts without the victims’ consent. Rape involves a penetrative sexual act, molestation does not, but both are nonconsensual and forceful.

Victims are just anybody - male, female, young, and old, who, having gone through the pains of being mal-handled (especially when it is physically forceful), still struggles to survive emotionally and psychologically­. Sometimes the result is death! The perpetrators don’t necessarily come in hooded scary monsters but in form of a boss, father, mother, relative, mentor, pastor, coach, manager, colleague, or worse still a total stranger. In Nigeria, most of these abusers walk freely because four out of five rape or molestation go unreported, and when reported, it frequently gets dismissed for lack of admissible evidence. How pathetic!!!

I have read and heard stories of how husbands abuse their wives (and vice versa). This seem too preposterous for me to comprehend, perhaps because I am married to the most understanding and gentle man God ever created. Arguing out why a forceful or non-forceful unconsented sexual activity in a matrimonial home is also a form of rape has put me at a risk of coming across as an alien to my co-debaters, some of whom believe that once the dowry of the woman is paid, then the man owns the license and have access to ‘everything’ in the woman, which he can command or request for ‘use’ when and however he wants it. If she says ‘no’, it is taken as an act of disrespect, thereby leading to sexual assault. Where then is the right of the victim to say ‘no’, and the ‘no’ is taken as ‘NO’?

Homes, schools, boardrooms, offices, correctional facilities (e. g. prisons), religious houses, learning institutions etc, have become hubs for this dastardly act. Alarmingly, statistics in countries where this scourge is widespread reveal that majority of the perpetrators are immediate family members or relatives; while neighbours, acquaintances, and other people known to the victims are the secondary abusers. I recall a lady who shared her rape story of how her father molested and raped her severally since she was 8 years old. Another lady explained how her uncle would visit and molest her without the knowledge of her parents. Someone else narrated how, as an artist, her coach/­manager molested her severally with the promise to make her famous. The most shocking story I got was how a male teacher repeatedly molested a brilliant primary school male pupil as his way of erotically showing how proud he is of the naïve boy's excellent academic performance. How do we explain the mentor-mentee rape and molestation; or that of the employer-employee, which has become too common and too silenced to be tackled?

Threats, spoken or unspoken, are major weapons abusers use to ensure their victims are mute about their shameful acts, especially culprits who are in positions of authority. Should we wait for this to happen to someone close to us before we do something? How long will our silence continue? Can't we see the viral effect of our continued silence?

What is to be done? Nigeria should take a cue from countries that are fighting assiduously to erase this menace and its ripple effect on their economy. Nigeria is particularly a peculiar place where one can hardly find statistics to describe the extent or alleviation of this societal ill. Creating awareness, promoting consciousness, and ensuring culprits are brought to book will be a right path to follow. A Centre for Rape and Related Crimes should be considered to serve as a one-stop ‘home’ for these abused victims where they can get all the help needed to survive. There is an urgent need to create a non-stigmatizin­g non-judgemental­ 'conducive environment' so victims can be encouraged to speak up; yet controlled enough to avoid its abuse. We should strive to have a society that stops blaming the victims for the act, especially when the truth has been established. Experienced Psychologists should be raised to offer proper post-abuse counselling to these victims. Professional investigators should be groomed to examine and ascertain the authenticity and circumstance of the incidence so that justice can be reached accordingly. Efforts should also be made to uphold utmost professionalism­ and integrity so that 'salivating' hungry suited awaiting perpetrators would be prevented from having a share of their perceived ‘national cake’ by asking an already battered rape victim to undress so her bruises can be assessed. Not all molested or rape victims get wounded, so it is foolhardy to expect blood or torn private parts in determining the accuracy of a rape story.

It is imperative therefore that while the Senate debates and pass a bill on same-sex marriage; and the Federal Government is racking her brain on whether amnesty to the Boko Haram insurgents should be granted or not; rape and molestation is a terrain that must not be ignored, lest we have more angry, abused, perverted, waiting-to-expl­ode walking corpses in our society. And as we expect actions from the government; individuals and leaders of NGOs/FBOs, religious bodies, learning institutions, and corporate organizations must endeavour to, subtly or aggressively, create awareness and an atmosphere that will ensure that this menace is kept at bay as much as possible.

As our quota, “555 Foundation” is putting together series of sensitization campaign programs through its “Project WARM” (War Against Rape and Molestation); and we use this medium to call on individuals and bodies to support this cause so as to achieve our vision of curbing this scourge. In whatever way you can help, please let us know via warm@the555grou­p.com.

This is a call to action!

Thank you.

~Bukky Shonibare

LUIS SUAREZ GIVEN 10-MATCH BAN FOR BITING BRANISLAV IVANOVIC

Liverpool striker Luis Suarez has received a 10-game ban for biting Chelsea defender Branislav Ivanovic during a game.

The player's club immediately released a statement saying it was "shocked and disappointed at the severity" of the Football Association's punishment, decided by an independent regulatory commission.

An FA statement said: "A three-person independent regulatory commission today upheld the FA's claim that a suspension of three matches was clearly insufficient and the player will serve a further seven first-team matches in addition to the standard three.

"The suspension begins with immediate effect."

Suarez has until midday on Friday to appeal the additional suspension.

Liverpool's managing director Ian Ayre said: "Both the club and player are shocked and disappointed at the severity of today's Independent Regulatory Commission decision.

"We await the written reasons tomorrow before making any further comment."

Suarez had issued statements apologising to Ivanovic in the wake of his side's 2-2 draw with Chelsea at Anfield. The incident was missed by referee Kevin Friend but could be seen clearly on television replays.

The 26-year-old Uruguayan was banned for seven matches in 2010 for biting PSV Eindhoven player Otman Bakkal while playing for Ajax in the Dutch league.

He was also suspended for eight games in December 2011 for racially abusing Manchester United defender Patrice Evra during a match.

Suarez has been repeatedly accused of diving to win penalties and free kicks, and was criticised after scoring a goal despite a blatant handball in an FA Cup tie this season against minor league Mansfield Town.

His reputation was first damaged when he was sent off for a deliberate handball to prevent Ghana from scoring a late goal in a World Cup quarter-final match in 2010.

He was then seen celebrating on the sideline when Ghana missed the spot kick and Uruguay advanced in a shootout.

There is no standard minimum or maximum punishment for biting in football's disciplinary code, unlike rugby union which has a 12-week recommended suspension for first offences and up to a four-year ban for the most serious incidents.

Liverpool moved quickly to deal with the latest crisis surrounding their star striker and imposed a club fine which is being donated to the Hillsborough families' support group.

Despite the biting incident Suarez remains among the favourites for the Professional Footballers' Association Player of the Year award, to be announced on Sunday.

Many commentators have suggested the player, who is Liverpool's top scorer with 23 league goals this season, will leave English football in the summer following his latest controversy.

Liverpool are facing their fourth season outside the Champions League and Suarez recently said: "I am very happy at Liverpool but you never know in football.

"A player's ambition is always there, the ambition of wanting to play in elite teams is always there.

"If another team comes around with more prospects of competing in international club competition games, which is willing to have me, they are welcome."

Source: Sky News

ROMAN ABRAMOVICH ON TALKS WITH JOSE MOURINHO FOR 3 YEARS DEAL

The Special One (Jose Mourinho) might make a return to his home (Stamford Bridge) for 3 years deal, according to Mercato.
Jose Mourinho, earlier, expressed his desire to return to Chelsea and according to him, he told that he has got unfinished business left in the London club. This report from Mercato will prove to be massive boost for all the Chelsea fans following their dismaying display this term.

Also, according to RMC Sports, Falcao might join Jose Mourinho as new recruits in Stamford Bridge. It wrote that PSG were interested in Falcao but the Colombian is expected to join Mourinho at the Stamford Bridge. Chelsea, reportedly bid 4 years contract worth €10m/yr for Falcao.

The RMC sports article stated.

FIGURINE ARAROMIRE MOVIE FINALLY DROPS ONLINE ON IBAKATV

Synopsis;

Araromire is neither good nor evil; for anyone that comes in contact with her shall flourish for seven years and for another seven years that follows, Araromire becomes wrathful, unleashing terror and destruction on whoever has her in custody. While serving at a National Youth Service Corps camp, two friends find a mystical sculpture in an abandoned shrine in the forest, and one of them decides to take the artwork home. Unknown to them, the sculpture is the same from the Yoruba goddess Araromire. Is the Figurine a story of a love triangle, friendship, loyalty, betrayal? Or is it about the lingering power of curses, whether or not we believe in fate? The genre is thriller characterized by a strong spiritual theme spiced with a bit of romance.

The movie is available in french and spanish language subtitles.

Watch this intriguing movie on http://www.ibakatv.com/movies/watch/Figurine

VIDEO: KUNLE AFOLAYAN HANGOUT WITH FANS ON GOOGLE+

Fans and lovers of the Movie 'Figurine' had a chance to connect directly with the producer,  multiple award winner Kunle Afolayan via a google hand out. Figurine is 2009 Nigerian Thriller written by Kemi Adesoye. Produced and directed by Kunle Afolayan who also stars in the film as one of the main protagonists. The moviewhich had the likes of Ramsey Noah, Omoni Oboli and Jide Kosoko, won the 2012 African Movie Academy Awards.

BREAKING NEWS: SEVERAL HOUSES ON FIRE IN MOKOLA IBADAN

There is presently an alleged multiple inferno going on at the Mokola area of Ibadan, Oyo state. 

A Splendormag.com reader just sent in this pix. We'll try to bring you more details later...the source who said is house is among told us he couldn't say anything for now as he is really under tensed up

CBN ON NAIRA NOTES AGAIN: PLANS TO CHANGE N5, N10 AND N50 FROM POLYMER TO PAPER

CBN is poised to stop the printing of small denomination Naira in polymer notes because they fade quickly.
Its Deputy Governor, Mr Tunde Lemo, told newsmen on Sunday in Washington on the sideline of the ongoing Spring Meeting of the World Bank and the IMF.
“By the middle of the year, we will start to produce the second generation of lower denomination notes, now in paper not in polymer.’’
“My plea is that Nigerians should exercise patience with us; it wasn’t the fault of the CBN, it was just because we had to go back to the drawing board to rethink `Project Cure’ in the light of the wish of the public that we should not go ahead with the N5000 notes and lower denomination.
“We will correct that in the course of the year. Polymer certainly will be phased out. In fact, we are phasing out polymer. No new note is being printed in polymer now.’
Lemo told NAN that when the CBN was going to introduce the polymer currencies, its search showed that they could last longer than ordinary paper notes.
“However, with the benefit of hindsight, we probably should not have dumped polymer because, yes, the substrate lasts longer, but the in-consubstrate began to fade; we didn’t realise that at the time of introduction.
“ So, part of `Project cure’ actually was actually to move away from polymer substrate to paper, unfortunately we had a push-back because of the issues around N5000 note and coins.

“The entire program was put in abeyance, otherwise by now we should have stopped producing polymer.’’
He said that the CBN had awarded a contract for the printing of the higher denomination notes to a foreign company because of low capacity at the Nigerian Printing and Minting Company.
He said the CBN would begin to receive the fresh notes from June.
On the campaign on the careful handling of the naira, Lemo said that it was unfortunate that the campaign was not successful, but noted that it was a criminal act to abuse the naira going by the CBN Act.
“Unfortunately, CBN is not a law enforcement institution; we left that in the hands of the law enforcement institutions and that has not kicked in.’’
I still go to parties and see people spraying money, stepping on money, I see touts distributing mint-fresh money that should go to customers.’’
Lemo also revealed that the CBN had talked to the police to step up its surveillance to reduce the abuse of the naira adding that the bank had no right to arrest people who sold the naira on the streets.
He said that the act of abuse and sale of the naira by touts had defeated the clean note policy of the bank, but assured that efforts were being made to tackle the problem.
Source: (NAN)

LOL: THE ONLY WAY TO PROTECT YOUR PLAYERS FROM LUIS SUAREZ

EXACTLY 3 YEARS....STILL ON OUR MINDS

It's been exactly 3 years since we lost a music gem and lyrical genius. While you were here, you held millions spell-bound through your music.

Gone too soon but you were a LEGEND in every right. You will forever be in our HEARTS. Rest In Peace Dagrin the CEO. Oladapo Olaitan Olanipekun!!! (Dagrin Omo Ogun.... Barack O'grin)

SECOND BOSTON MARATHON BOMBING SUSPECT CAPTURED ALIVE

Police have confirmed that the second Boston bombing suspect Dzhokhar Tsarnaev, 19, is alive and in custody after a standoff in Watertown district. Tsarnaev was bleeding in a serious condition and was taken to Massachusetts General Hospital by the police.
President Barack Obama said Tsarnaev's capture closes what he called "an important chapter in this tragedy".
His older brother was killed earlier on Friday in an attempt to escape from the police. Click to continue reading.
According to Al Jazeera the suspect was found when the FBI had been alerted to a "trail of blood", with conflicting reports that a suspect had been pinned down. A local man contacted the authorities, having noted that his shed door, where he stores the boat, was open, and saw what he thought were pools of blood.
Our correspondent said that shots were heard being fired in Watertown and that police had been telling people "stay down and stay away from windows".

I WORKED HARD TO BUY MY BENTLEY, IT IS NOT FROM ANY LADY- AREMU AFOLAYAN

The actor and producer took delivery of a Bentley Continental GT car on April 7th and since then tongues have been wagging, with some claiming a sugar mummy bought the car for him. Aremu Afolayan has reacted to the speculations, insisting he bought the car with his hard earned money. Below is what he told an Encomium magazine reporter:

“I don’t think a woman will love a man so much that she will buy a Bentley for him. If they think it’s easy to date elderly women and get a Bentley, let them try. The problem with people is that they tend to hate what they can’t conquer. I date ladies, not older women. Moreover, whoever I date is my choice.”

BEYONCE AND JAY Z TO HIT A BILLION DOLLAR MARK AS COUPLE

Superstars, Jay Z and wife Beyonce have been predicted by analysts to hit the one billion dollar mark this year. Presently, Jay Z is worth $475million and Beyonce about $400million. With all the stuff they have lined up this year, analysts predict they will hit the one billion mark.

Beyonce’s new H&M deal, her Mrs. Carter Show world tour, which will bring in $115 million, her $50 million endorsement deal with Pepsi and Jay Z’s upcoming Legends of the Summer tour, along with his various other ventures, will put the power couple over the billion dollar mark this year.

PRECAUTIONARY MEASURES AGAINST KIDNAPPERS

Just got this, might be useful...let's take precautions.

Dear all, Between Sunday 14th and Tuesday 16th April, 2013, six persons have been kidnapped in various parts of Lagos particularly Yaba, Surulere, Ejigbo and Lekki and huge amount of money demanded on each person and none has been released as of now. In view of this, the following security tips could be of assistance:
1. Be alert and aware of your environment.
2. Keep low profile...Do not give vital/personal information to persons unfamiliar to you.
3. Avoid late outings
4. Vary your route to work or leisure locations
5. Do not discuss financial matters in the open
6. Always pre – plan your journey and ensure the vehicle is in good working condition.
7. Do not give ride to strangers.
8. Stick to main roads and avoid lonely routes.
9. Discourage children from talking to, or receiving gifts from strangers, it could be bait for kidnap.
10. Always let close family members know where you are going and when you would likely return.
Always remember: Your security is your personal responsibility.
In an emergency dial Lagos State Emergency Response 767 orPolice Control Room: 08035068243, 07035068242, 08073777717, 08073777787.

Kindly share, your little effort could save a life

PICTURE OF RESIGNATION CAKE

A Border Force worker from Stansted Airport quit his job by baking a resignation 'letter'.

Chris Holmes, from Sawston in Cambridgeshire, told airport bosses he wanted to devote "time and energy" to his family and business interests.

An image of the iced resignation went viral on Twitter within hours of Mr Holmes' brother-in-law posting it on the social networking site.

The Border Force said Mr Holmes "leaves with our best wishes".

Mr Holmes delivered the white iced resignation cake on Monday, his 31st birthday. He had worked at the airport as an immigration officer for four years.

He tweeted he was "overwhelmed by the positive response" from members of the public.

Bill Form, Border Force assistant director at Stansted, said: "Chris handed in the cake, along with a more formal letter, yesterday.

"He leaves with our very best wishes and we wish him well for the future."

Steven Livingstone tweeted: "His cake writing is better than my writing. Impressive."

VIDEO PREMIERE: B RED - INSANE GIRL Ft. DAVIDO

Yoruba Actor Odunade Adekola's Wife Delivers New Baby Boy!

VIDEO: Founder of Overcomers Church, Bishop Moses has addressed the Solomon Akiyesi's wedding scandal.

VIDEO PREMIERE: Orezi- What Is The Need

PREMIERE: NIKKI LAOYE BRAND NEW SINGLE- "ONLY YOU"

NIKKI LAOYE RELEASES BRAND NEW SINGLE -"ONLY YOU" - FROM THE STABLES OF ILLTUNE MUSIC /WAHALA MEDIA ENTERTAINMENT

The anticipation for Nikki Laoye's new single "ONLY YOU" has been steadily building over the past few weeks since the sneak preview performance at select events recently.

Following the release of her dance hit single, "1-2-3", the heart-rending, love-laced ballad, "ONLY YOU", superbly produced by top producer, Rotimikeys brings the magical soothing sound of Nikki to the fore once again. Fondly tagged "The Queen of Harmonies" by fans and friends, "ONLY YOU" reins in the title a bit more as the lush vocal arrangements over the excellently crafted musical symphony, show forth the unique and amazing vocal dexterity of Nikki Laoye.

Written by Nikki and her close friend, Nelson Ekperi, "ONLY YOU" is an expression of love, confidence - celebrating a Father's Love - call it "The Hero's Anthem" and it's also dedicated to the memory of Nikki's late father, Prince Olushola Isaac Laoye.

On the song, Nikki speaks, "Losing my father and watching him slip away in my arms, 3 months to my wedding, was the most traumatic experience of my life. He was my Hero, my best friend...Everything I had ever believed in was challenged and nothing seemed to make sense anymore. I was shattered beyond a million pieces and no one could totally understand the pain i was going through as I quietly slipped away into my own world of anger and depression, refusing to be consoled.  But there He was...the ONE, who held on tightly to my mind, who refused to let me go even when I turned away in grief & despair; the ONE who kept whispering words of love, joy and peace to my heart every second over the past 1 year.

The ONE who came swooshing down to rescue me & held my hand through it all.. 

Yes, "ONLY YOU" celebrates my true SuperHero of all times, Jesus - the ONE who always gives beauty for ashes and i just simply wanna say It's been ONLY YOU,No one else But You.

ONLY YOU was written by Nelson Ekperi & Nikki Laoye; produced by Rotimikeys (@rotimikeys) and mixed by Olaitan Dada (@olaitandada) for Natialo Productions.

Another hit single from Nikki Laoye's upcoming sophomore album, “ONLY YOU” is a song everyone can easily relate to..Certainly a hit record that would remain deeply engraved in the hearts of all.

"ONLY YOU" is OUT NOW via ILLTUNE MUSIC LTD & WAHALA MEDIA ENTERTAINMENT as Nikki Laoye is currently signed to a new management deal. 

Wahala Media Entertainment, which has managed Nikki's career for the past 7 years, has just signed a joint venture agreement with ILLTUNE Music Ltd to push Nikki's music into greater heights of achievements. Both companies will work hand in hand to drive the Nikki Laoye brand with ILLTUNE MUSIC, being the face and projection of the new management deal.

LISTEN + DOWNLOAD “ONLY YOU”: http://www.hulkshare.com/dl/4l2ma4eblmgw

Photography by : Big H Studios, Abuja

ABOUT NIKKI LAOYE

Nikki Laoye is a dynamic recording/performing artiste, known for her eclectic musical expressions.  

With her award-winning hit singles - "Never Felt This Way Before" and "Taka Sufe", both from her debut album ANGEL 4 LIFE, Nikki stands in a league of her own as one of the 1st three artistes ever to be interviewed and recognized from Nigeria on America's top entertainment channel, BET(Black Entertainment Television) in 2009.

Asides from her music and her responsibilities as a Project Manager with Wahala Media Entertainment, Nikki is committed to supporting the development of visually impaired and physically children & youths, as well as promoting a campaign against Violence towards Women in conjunction with the United Nations, all with her NGO initiative, "ANGEL 4 LIFE FOUNDATION".

Recently, Nikki kicked off her own radio show, "GIRLS ROCK WITH NIKKI LAOYE", which airs every Thursday, 5pm-7pm on Nigeria's 1st Online Gospel Radio Station, PraiseWorld Radio (www.praiseworldradio.com), showcasing the best of music by female gospel and inspirational artistes in Africa and beyond . 

Currently working on her sophomore album, Nikki had released two previous single - the hiphop track, "No Be Beans" featuring fast rising Yoruba Hip Hop artiste, Base One and the dance hit single, "1-2-3" which is presently a major radio hit in Nigeria, UK, Kenya and more.

CONNECT WITH NIKKI LAOYE

Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/nikkilaoye

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/nikkilaoyefanpage

Reverbnation: http://www.reverbnation.com/nikkilaoye

Hulkshare: http://www.hulkshare.com/nikkilaoye

Girls Rock! Radio Show With Nikki Laoye:http://www.facebook.com/girlsrock9ja

MEDIA & BOOKINGS:

Kindly direct all media and booking inquiries to iLLTUNE MUSIC >> booknikkilaoye@gmail.com

Mercy Aigbe's Response To Alleged Husband's Assault

RICK ROSS
REEBOK GIVES RAPPER
THE BOOT

EXCLUSIVE

Rick Ross just learned a hard lesson about rape and money ... you embrace one, you lose the other ... because he was just DUMPED by Reebok.

Ross has taken a ton of heat for his song, U.O.E.N.O ... in which he happily sings, "Put Molly [Ecstasy] all in the champagne.  She ain't even know it.  I took her home and I enjoy that.  She ain't even know it."  Translation -- date rape.

Reebok holds their partners to a high standard, and they expect them to live up to the values of their brand.  Unfortunately, Rick Ross has failed to do so."

Reebok goes on:  "While we do not believe that Rick Ross condones sexual assault, we are very disappointed he has yet to display an understanding of the seriousness of this issue or an appropriate level of remorse."

IVF( Test tube children) pioneer Robert Edwards dies aged 87

Sir Robert Edwards developed the technique of in vitro fertilisation with Dr Patrick Steptoe, resulting in the birth of Louise Brown, the first test tube baby. Photograph: Reuters

Sir Robert Edwards, whose pioneering IVF technique has helped bring more than 4 million children into the world, has died aged 87, Cambridge University has announced.

"It is with deep sadness that the family announces that Professor Sir Robert Edwards, Nobel prizewinner, scientist and co-pioneer of IVF, passed away peacefully in his sleep on 10 April 2013 after a long illness," the university said in a statement on Wednesday.

"He will be greatly missed by family, friends and colleagues. "

In the late 1970s, Edwards and Dr Patrick Steptoe became famous after developing the technique of in vitro fertilisation, which resulted in the birth of Louise Brown – the world's first test tube baby – in 1978. Their work won them the gratitude of millions of people, but was criticised by the Vatican.

Edwards, who started his work on fertilisation in 1955, won the Nobelprize for physiology or medicine in 2010 "for the development of in vitro fertilisation". A year later, he was knighted for "services to human reproductive biology".

Martin Johnson, professor of reproductive science at the University of Cambridge – and Edwards's first graduate student – said: "Bob Edwards was a remarkable man who changed the lives of so many people. He was not only a visionary in his science but also in his communication to the wider public about matters scientific in which he was a great pioneer.

He will be greatly missed by his colleagues, students, his family and all the many people he has helped to have children."

Mike Macnamee, chief executive of Bourn Hall, the IVF clinic that Steptoe and Edwards co-founded, said: "Bob Edwards is one of our greatest scientists. His inspirational work in the early 60s led to a breakthrough that has enhanced the lives of millions of people worldwide.

"He is held in great affection by everyone who has worked with him and was treated by him.

"For me personally Bob was a great mentor, colleague and friend. It was a privilege to work with him and his passing is a great loss to us all."

Source: The Guardian Uk

P-Square’s Paul Okoye and Girlfriend Anita Welcome Son!

The beautiful girlfriend of Paul Okoye has just given birth to the ‘Rude Boy’s first son, Andre.

Paul had flown out to Atlanta on Monday to meet his long-time girlfriend, Anita in lieu of the arrival of their baby. His twin brother, Peter took to Instagram to announce the news with the above photo and the following caption:

“Big congrats to my better half @rudeboypsquare..Welcome to the world Andre”.

The mother and child are reported to be in good health

We are so happy about the birth of their son and wish them the very best. Congratulations!

Shocking!!! First Traditional African Gay Wedding Ceremony

The groom said 'being gay is as African as being black!' This history making event happened in KwaDukuza, a small town in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.

THE WHOLE TRUTH ABOUT NOLLYWOOD ACTRESS MERCY AIGBE'S ISSUE WITH HUSBAND

It was reported that Mercy Aigbe, the Yoruba popular actress, had an issue with her hubby, Lanre Gentry, at the Troy Lounge, where she honoured the Oodua TV crew for interview and the husband, Lanre was said to have dragged her out of the venue furiously.

This is what Mercy sent to us as her response when Newsmen inquired about her reaction over the story.

Contrary to gist going round on some blogs about how actress Mercy Aigbe was publicly disgraced by her husband Lanre Gentry, nothing of the sort actually happened.

According to inside sources, the actress arrived Troy Lounge, Ogba, the venue of the hosting late due to the fact that there was a party at her husband’s hotel in honour of a certain artiste.

Mercy’s husband Lanre Gentry actually got to Troy Lounge 30 minutes before Mercy Aigbe who later arrived in her car a, Toyota Solara V6 SLE, in company of her younger sister, PA and some friends.

Mercy was later ushered to the red carpet where she spent about 30 minutes taking photos with fans.

Subsequently, the actress was taken to a room which was reserved for her by the O’odua M’oun M’aworan crew (this is actually a norm with both the V Channel and O’odua TV team) for her to rest before joining the party which was already being enjoyed by her husband.

While on the hot seat, Mercy Aigbe answered several questions from fans. And when asked what her regret in life was, she was quick to say “My only regret in life is that my husband is not the father of my first child, I wish I had met him earlier than I did because he has been so good to me.”

After she danced with guests at the event, she complained of tiredness and retired to her room. The MC of the event, Soji Omotayo, who was trying to make light comedy (as he knew Mercy was in her room already) started asking “Where is Mercy o”

Back at the room, Mercy had changed into a more comfortable outfit (a white Jalamia). She was later joined by her husband and they both came downstairs together. However, Mercy’s car developed a fault and refused to start. Lanre Gentry then attempted to get someone to fix the problem with the car but was advised by Bimbo Salako of O’Odua TV to let it be until Monday morning since it was already late. Mercy later joined her hubby in his car and they drove off.

Mercy’s car was later moved from Troy Lounge at about 1 pm yesterday for repairs.

Meanwhile, fans and friends feel that it's uncalled for to have gone there with another clothing item. even if she wants to change if she wasn't feeling too comfortable with what she had on earlier she could have changed into something more beffiting for the ceremony rather than something as extremely casual as a Jalamia as reported. 

mercy aigbe at the event