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Inside Delta: Three Feared Dead, Many Injured As Asaba Stadium Collapses

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Three persons are feared dead at the moment as the multiple sports complex at the Stephen Keshi Stadium in Asaba, Delta State, collapsed on Thursday morning.

 

Scores of others were injured and were rushed to the hospital.

 

It was gathered that among the dead, were construction workers at the site of the building.

 

The two-storey is under construction in preparation for the 21st National Sports Festival (NSF) to be hosted at the stadium from November 28, this year.

 

According to reports, a team of journalists including Paul Osuyi of the Sun, Monday Osayande of Guardian and Amaechi Okwara of Blueprint who went to access the level of damage were bundled out of the stadium on the orders of the chairman, Delta State Sports Commission, Tonobok Okowa.

 

Mr Okowa, who doubles as Co-Chairman of the Local Organising Committee (LOC) for the festival tagged Asaba 2022, was said to have ordered his boys to confiscate the working tools of the journalists.

 

Handing out the order, Okowa said “take them out of this place, journalists are not needed.”

 

But when his boys were reluctant in carrying out the order, he shouted “are they still here, collect their gadgets and bundle them out of here.”

 

The boys, in carrying out the order, beat the journalists, heating them with sport gun and other objects.

 

Recall that the collapsed building was recently inspected by the Minister of Sports, Sunday Dare, who gave a pass mark, saying that the facilities were 80% ready for use.

 

However, some structural engineers expressed concerns over the speed at which the construction was going, doubting the integrity of the buildings under construction.

 

Recall, two times in six months in 2019, facilities in the stadium collapsed, causing critics of the incumbent administration in the state led by Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, to question the quality of job done by the contractor of the project.

 

The first was the collapse of a big overhead water tank near the swimming pool of the stadium, which ended up destroying vehicles that were under the tank. The second and the most recent is the collapse of the score board in the stadium complex. The good news, however, is that God averted tragedies as none of the incidents led to loss of life.

 

Construction work had begun in the stadium years ago but was abandoned by the previous administration until incumbent Gov Okowa, committed huge sum of money and completed the construction of the stadium mid last year, enabling the state to host the 21st edition of the African Senior Atheletics Championship last August.

 

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NSA Ribadu Tells Canada To “Go To Hell” For Denying Military Chiefs Visas

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In a significant diplomatic snub, Canada has refused to grant visas to Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, and several other senior military officers for an official event. Speaking on Thursday, February 13, 2025, at the first annual lecture of the National Association of the Institute for Security Studies (AANISS) in Abuja, National Security Adviser (NSA) Nuhu Ribadu voiced his dissatisfaction, telling Canada “to go to hell.”

The officials were scheduled to participate in a ceremony in Canada honoring war veterans, but only a part of the delegation was granted visas, sparking strong reactions from Nigerian authorities.

Ribadu and Musa discussed the matter at the inaugural lecture of the Alumni Association of the National Institute for Security Studies (AANISS). The event, attended by security experts and government officials, highlighted national security and international collaboration.

Ribadu labeled the visa denial as disrespectful, while Musa stressed that Nigeria needs to assert itself internationally and no longer be taken lightly. Musa reflected on how his team had been invited to the veterans’ event, only to be hit with an unexpected setback when some members of the delegation were denied entry. He viewed the incident as a reminder for Nigeria to bolster its independence and strength.

He stated, “Every disappointment is a blessing. Yesterday, I was meant to be in Canada for an event to honor our veterans… half of us have gone, and half have been denied. It’s very disappointing. It’s a clear reminder that the country must stand on its own, stand strong as a nation, and should no longer be taken for granted.”

Ribadu commended Musa for his leadership in tackling security issues and underscored the importance of national advancement. He remarked, “Thank you for having the courage to say Canada denied you visas. They can go to hell. Even though it’s painful and disrespectful, we are peaceful and strong, and I agree with you that it is time to fix our country.”

The visa rejection raises concerns about Canada’s position on Nigerian military officials and its broader diplomatic relationship with Nigeria. While the exact reasons for the denial remain unclear, the incident has shed light on the bureaucratic and political obstacles Nigerian officials face in international dealings.

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Gbenga Adeyinka D’1st Gears Up For Laffmattazz “About Time World Tour”

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Iconic Nigerian comedian, Gbenga Adeyinka D’1st, is set to embark on a global comedy tour, bringing laughter and excitement to fans around the world.

The Laffmattazz tagged “About Time World Tour” promises to be an unforgettable experience, featuring Gbenga Adeyinka D’1st’s unique brand of comedy and other amazing comedians.

The tour will kick off in Nigeria, with shows in Ibadan, Akure, Abeokuta, and Lagos.

From there, Gbenga Adeyinka D’1st will take his comedy to the global stage, performing in the UK, Canada, and the USA.

“We are thrilled to announce the Laffmattazz World Tour, which promises to be an epic comedy experience,” said Gbenga Adeyinka D’1st.

When asked what his fans should expect, Gbenga Adeyinka D’1st said “We have an amazing lineup of shows planned, and we can’t wait to bring laughter and joy to our fans around the world.”

The Laffmattazz World Tour is set to be a hilarious and entertaining experience, featuring Gbenga Adeyinka D’1st’s signature comedy style, which blends humor, storytelling, and audience interaction.

For more information on the Laffmattazz World Tour, including tour dates, venues, and ticket information, follow us on social media @gbengaadeyinka1stgcon @Laffmattazz_ga1st

Join the conversation on social media using the hashtag #LaffmattazzWorldTour.

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Our Matriarch Has Returned To Her Creator

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With a heavy heart and complete submission to the will of Almighty Allah, we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Mrs Mojisola Norinatu Adebayo Nee Adelakun who departed this world on the evening of Tuesday, February 11, 2025.

Fondly known as Iya Wale, she lived a remarkable 68years filled with love, kindness, and wisdom. She was a pillar of strength who taught us patience, tolerance, and, above all, the true essence of love. Her presence touched many lives, and her legacy of compassion will forever remain in our hearts.

Though my siblings and I deeply mourn her loss, we take solace in the knowledge that she has returned to her Creator. In accordance with Islamic rites, she was laid to rest on Wednesday, February 12, 2025.

As we reflect on her impactful life, the family will hold the 8th Day Fidau prayers next week to honor her memory. We kindly ask for your prayers and support during this difficult time.

May Allah grant her eternal rest and admit her into Al-Jannah Firdaus.

 

Dr. Abiola Adebayo

For the Family

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