NEWS

FG Fires Back At Congressman, Says His “Out Of Tune With Reality”.

Published

8 years ago

September 5, 2016

The federal government has fired back at U.S congressman Tom Marino, who urged his country to suspend security support it offered to Nigeria, based on alleging infractions on some principles ,local and international regulations and conventions by the President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration. The federal government dismissed criticism by the congressman saying his out of tune with reality.

In response to the allegations, minister of information and culture, Lia Mohammed said the allegations by Marino were imaginary and that he was poorly informed about the issues he commented on.

He wondered why the congressman did not “take the pains” to get first-hand information from the US embassy in Nigeria or any other credible source before engaging in “what is nothing but a propaganda of his own imagination’’.

Mohammed said by asking the US to refrain from selling warplanes and other military equipment to Nigeria based on a faulty premise, the lawmaker demonstrated a poor understanding of global security issues.

“Insecurity anywhere is insecurity everywhere. Had Congressman Marino understood this, he would not have made the kind of call he made concerning the US security assistance to Nigeria,” Mohammed said in a statement.

“The Boko Haram insurgency that Nigeria has decisively dealt with under President Muhammadu Buhari is not just a Nigerian problem but a regional and international crisis.”

Mohammed said Marino was wrong when he alleged that Buhari did not “demonstrate a commitment to inclusive government and the most basic tenets of democracy – freedom to assemble and freedom of speech’’.

“An administration that operates purely on the basis of respect for the rule of law and a strict adherence to constitutional order is not one to deny the citizens of their constitutionally-guaranteed rights,” he said.

“This administration therefore does not need the goading of Congressman Marino or anyone for that matter to do what is right.

“Concerning running an inclusive government, had Congressman Marino done his homework before dispatching his letter, he would have realised that no part of the country is left out in the distribution of political appointments.

“The appointment of ministers was done in accordance with the constitution that mandates that the president must appoint at least one minister from each of the 36 states and the federal capital territory.

“Had the congressman sought information from credible sources before engaging in a flight of fancy, he would have been presented with comprehensive information on the appointment of CEOs for federal government’s parastatals, agencies and commissions.

“The appointments were almost evenly matched along the line of the six geo-political zones in the country, with the north-west having 51, north-central, 46; north-east, 45; south-east, 41; south-west, 45 and south-south, 45.

“The congressman may wish to note that each geo-political zone comprises six states, with the exception of north-west (7) and south-east (5).”

He added that Marino’s description of the Buhari’s administration’s anti-corruption efforts as “selective’’ was a tired argument that clearly showed that the US lawmaker must have appended his signature to someone’s concocted line.

“That line was invented by those seeking to cause an unnecessary distraction from the administration’s anti-corruption efforts, and it has been roundly rejected,” he said.

“Congressman Marino’s decision to exhume the dead postulation without an iota of proof is a reflection of whose side he has taken in the ongoing efforts to rid Nigeria of corrupt elements.

“Needless to say that the anti-corruption battle will continue unhindered, irrespective of whose ox is gored. And in this fight, only the guilty needs be afraid.”

Mohammed expressed delight that Kerry, whom the letter was addressed to, was more knowledgeable, better briefed and definitely more hands-on concerning Nigerian issues.

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MUSIC

Wizkid’s “Dance” Reappears On Apple Music Nigeria Top 100

Published

1 day ago

November 21, 2024

Reporter

Kese (Dance) Reappears on Apple Music Nigeria Top 100 | fab.ng

Wizkid’s ‘Kese (Dance)’ Reclaims Top Spot on Apple Music Nigeria

Wizkid’s latest single, ‘Kese (Dance)‘ dramatically returned to the Apple Music Nigeria Top 100 chart. The song temporarily disappeared on November 18, 2024, sparking widespread speculation among fans and music enthusiasts.

Fab.ng first reported the unexpected chart removal. Despite vanishing from the Nigerian chart, ‘Dance’ maintained its position on global Top 100 lists. Remarkably, it remained the sole Nigerian and African track on international charts.

Apple Music’s chart management protocols suggest potential reasons for the temporary removal. The platform commonly investigates potential streaming manipulation. When suspicious activity emerges, they remove and then reinstate tracks after verifying stream authenticity.

Fans and industry watchers developed multiple theories. Some believed the removal resulted from technical complications. Others suspected a deeper investigation into streaming patterns. The exact mechanism remained unclear.

Within hours, ‘Kese (Dance)’ returned to its top chart position. The song demonstrated sufficient streaming strength to reclaim its previous standing. Wizkid’s continued musical dominance remained unquestionable.

The incident generated additional excitement around Wizkid’s upcoming album ‘Morayo.’ Scheduled for release on November 22, 2024, the album generates significant anticipation. Wizkid strategically shared the official tracklist, further fueling fan enthusiasm.

Music industry observers noted the incident’s potential marketing impact. The temporary chart removal inadvertently increased visibility for both the single and the upcoming album. Wizkid’s strategic music release continues to capture the audience’s attention.

The event underscores the complex dynamics of digital music platforms. Streaming charts represent more than simple popularity metrics. They reflect intricate algorithmic and investigative processes.

Wizkid continues to demonstrate his significant influence in Nigerian and global music scenes. ‘Kese (Dance)’ represents another milestone in his remarkable musical journey.

Fans remain eager to experience the full ‘Morayo’ album, anticipating another potential chart-topping release from the superstar artist.

Check out more updates here.

MUSIC

Davido’s “Na Money” Wins Best Costume/Styling At Berlin Fashion Film Festival

Published

2 days ago

November 21, 2024

Reporter

Na Money wins best costume at Berlin fashion film festival | fab.ng

Davido’s “Na Money” music video, featuring Angélique Kidjo and The Cavemen, has earned the prestigious Best Costume/Styling (Craft) award at the 12th Berlin Fashion Film Festival.

The vibrant video is directed by Dammy Twitch and produced by Blessing Uzzi. The video captivated audiences with its colourful costumes, cultural depth, and breathtaking visuals. This celebrates African heritage with impeccable creativity and style.

The win underscores the team’s exceptional attention to detail in showcasing the beauty of African fashion and culture. From the elaborate traditional attire to the contemporary designs, the video seamlessly blends visual artistry with the powerful Afrobeat sound of the track.

This recognition cements “Na Money” as a benchmark for combining music and fashion in innovative storytelling.

The Berlin Fashion Film Festival celebrates fashion and film annually.

It has recognized outstanding talent since its establishment. The festival is part of the larger Berlinale, a global cinema event dating back to 1951.

It focuses on creativity and craftsmanship in filmmaking. The festival highlights emerging talent across various artistic disciplines. It awards prestigious honours like the Golden Bears.

The event attracts filmmakers, designers, and film enthusiasts from around the world. The festival provides a platform for innovative storytelling through visual media.

Recognizing creative excellence supports artistic development. The award represents a significant achievement for artists and creators. For Davido and his team, this recognition underscores their contribution to global cultural representation.

The festival continues to be an important stage for showcasing innovative artistic expressions.

The video’s dynamic visuals and cultural richness not only earned industry accolades but also resonated with fans worldwide.

To experience the award-winning brilliance firsthand, watch Davido’s “Na Money,” featuring Angélique Kidjo and The Cavemen, now.

Let the stunning visuals and captivating storytelling take you on a journey through Africa’s vibrant cultural tapestry.

Explore the full list of winners on the festival’s official site and join in celebrating this milestone for African music and fashion.

Watch the video below.

Check out more updates here.

MOVIES

“The Interrogation Of Lotanna” Bags 6 Nominations At The FilmJoint Awards 2025

Published

4 days ago

November 19, 2024

Reporter

The Interrogation of Lotanna: 6 nominations at TFA 2025 | fab.ng

Reginald Jumbo’s compelling short film “The Interrogation of Lotanna” has earned prestigious recognition with six nominations at the upcoming 2025 Film Joint Awards.

The nominations span major categories. They include Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor in a Leading Role, Best Indigenous Film (Nigeria), Best African Film, and the Best Jury Award for Outstanding Storytelling.

The FilmJoint platform stands as a vital global initiative that connects short filmmakers with international audiences. They provide them with a stage to showcase their creative works.

Through its annual awards ceremony, FilmJoint celebrates exceptional short films that advance African cinema’s artistic and cultural landscape.

Producers Ibukun Serah Adetoyinbo and Oreoluwa Obadofin bring to life a gripping narrative set against the backdrop of civil unrest.

The plot follows Captain Ardo, a military commander tasked with suppressing an eastern rebellion led by the elusive Zuru Nkwu.

After months of fruitless searches, intelligence leads Ardo to interrogate a suspect named Lotanna. Despite enduring severe torture, Lotanna steadfastly maintains his innocence throughout the ordeal.

The film showcases powerful performances from an ensemble cast. The cast features William Chinoyenem, Cassey Oritsejolomi, Anthony Nwahiri, Francis Sule, Michael Embraiz, and Mr. Rala.

Each actor brings depth and authenticity to their respective roles, contributing to the film’s emotional impact and storytelling prowess.

These nominations underscore the film’s artistic merit and its significant contribution to African cinema. The recognition from the FilmJoint Awards particularly highlights the film’s excellence in storytelling, direction, and performance.

Meanwhile, it also acknowledges its cultural significance as both a Nigerian and African production. The winners will be revealed at the 2025 FilmJoint Awards ceremony, where “The Interrogation of Lotanna” stands as a strong contender across multiple categories.

Check out more updates here.