Nigeria – Adomonline.com

TikToker dies after collapsing during live broadcast

Gertrude Okyere — Tue, 29 Apr 2025 08:27:02 +0000

A TikTok content creator widely known as ‘Disturbing’ has passed away after suffering a seizure during a live broadcast at his home in the Ikorodu area of Lagos State, Nigeria.

The tragic incident occurred on Thursday and quickly went viral, with footage capturing the final moments of the entertainer as he appeared visibly distressed before collapsing.

Disturbing, who was also a cobbler and musician, had gained prominence through his active involvement in the Justice for Mohbad movement.

In a statement shared on TikTok, his wife, Omowunmi, revealed that he struck his head against a stone during the fall.

She explained that she was in the kitchen at the time when neighbours alerted her to the emergency.

“Yesterday morning, my husband was on TikTok Live while I cooked his food. Suddenly, he had a seizure, fell, and hit his head on a stone. Blood was coming out of his head. A young boy and some neighbours saw him, thought he had fainted, and poured water on him. They called me from the kitchen,” she said.

He was rushed to the hospital, where doctors placed him on oxygen. However, he sadly passed away on Friday morning.

Omowunmi further revealed that the late TikToker had a medical history of seizures and was undergoing treatment, dismissing online speculation that his death was the result of a spiritual attack.

“The last time he had a seizure was in February. It is purely a medical issue,” she said.

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UK deports 43 immigration offenders to Ghana and Nigeria

Gertrude Okyere — Sat, 26 Apr 2025 10:11:25 +0000

The United Kingdom has deported 43 individuals to Ghana and Nigeria as part of its heightened efforts to strengthen border security under its “Plan for Change” immigration policy.

The group included 15 failed asylum seekers and 11 foreign nationals who had completed prison sentences in the UK. Seven of the individuals reportedly returned voluntarily.

The charter flight, which took off on Thursday, marks the second deportation operation to Ghana and Nigeria since the current government assumed office, bringing the total number of returnees to the two countries to 87.

UK officials say the operation reflects a growing partnership between the British government and its counterparts in Accra and Abuja to curb irregular migration and enforce immigration laws.

“This flight demonstrates how international partnerships deliver on working people’s priorities for swift returns and secure borders,” said Angela Eagle, the UK’s Minister for Border Security and Asylum.

“Through the Plan for Change, we’re going further in restoring order to a broken system, accelerating returns of those with no right to be here and closing expensive asylum hotels,” she added. “I thank the governments of Ghana and Nigeria for facilitating this operation, which reflects our joint commitment to disrupt organised immigration crime and protect our borders.”

According to the Home Office, more than 24,000 people have been returned since the current administration took over—a figure representing an 11% increase over the same period last year.

Deportations of foreign national offenders have also increased by 16%, with 3,594 criminals removed.

Baroness Chapman of Darlington, Minister at the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, said international cooperation remains key to tackling irregular migration.

“Working with other countries and partners around the world is critical to tackling irregular migration—by working internationally, we will meet this global challenge together,” she said. “I welcome our strong cooperation with Ghana and Nigeria to return those with no right to be in the UK, secure our borders, and deliver on the Plan for Change.”

The UK government noted that Immigration Enforcement ensures all deportations are conducted in a “dignified and respectful manner.”

The operation comes on the heels of the recent Organised Immigration Crime Summit hosted by the UK, which brought together representatives from over 40 countries—including Ghana and Nigeria—to advance global efforts against human smuggling and irregular migration.

The Plan for Change is one of the UK government’s flagship strategies aimed at tightening border controls, reducing asylum backlogs, and repatriating individuals who have no legal right to remain in the country.

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World Bank projects increase in poverty for Nigerians by 2027

Faridatu Seidu — Fri, 25 Apr 2025 09:53:14 +0000

The World Bank has projected that poverty will increase in Nigeria by three percentage points over the next five years, reaching 2027.

The World Bank made this projection in its Africa Pulse report, released on the sidelines of the ongoing Spring Meetings of the IMF and World Bank in Washington, DC.

The report, among other findings, painted a dire picture of poverty in Nigeria, noting that while economic activity has shown some positive signs, the underlying challenges associated with resource dependence and fragility are expected to escalate poverty levels. This requires focused and effective governance reforms and inclusive economic policies.

The report noted that while Nigeria saw higher-than-expected economic growth in the final quarter of 2024, particularly in its non-oil sector, the country’s status as a resource-rich and fragile nation means it faces a concerning outlook for poverty reduction.

The report indicates that poverty rates in resource-rich, fragile countries, including Nigeria, are expected to increase by 3.6 percentage points between 2022 and 2027. This makes Nigeria part of the only group in Sub-Saharan Africa with a projected rise in poverty.

The report stated: “Sub-Saharan Africa has the highest extreme poverty rate globally, and a large share of the poor is concentrated in a few countries. About 80 percent of the world’s estimated 695 million extreme poor resided in Sub-Saharan Africa in 2024, compared to 8 percent in South Asia, 2% in East Asia and the Pacific, 5 percent in the Middle East and North Africa, and 3 percent in Latin America and the Caribbean.”

“Within Sub-Saharan Africa, half of the 560 million extreme poor in 2024 resided in four countries. Non-resource-rich countries are expected to continue reducing poverty faster than resource-rich countries.”

“Thanks to higher prices of agricultural commodities, non-resource-rich countries will see higher growth overall, despite fiscal pressures. Conversely, resource-rich countries are not expected to grow at the same rate given decelerating oil prices. As a result, resource-rich countries are expected to see less progress in terms of poverty reduction.”

“Importantly, poverty in resource-rich, fragile countries (which include large countries like the Democratic Republic of Congo and Nigeria) is expected to increase by 3.6 percentage points over 2022–2027, being the only group in the region with increasing poverty rates.”

“This follows a well-established pattern: resource wealth combined with fragility or conflict is associated with the highest poverty rates—an average poverty rate of 46% in 2024, 13 percentage points above non-fragile, resource-rich countries.”

“Meanwhile, non-resource-rich, non-fragile countries saw the biggest gains in poverty reduction since 2000 and fully closed the gap in poverty with other non-resource-rich countries by 2010.”

Consequently, the report suggests that for resource-rich countries like Nigeria, improving fiscal management and developing a stronger fiscal contract with citizens is crucial.

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Pastor arrested for allegedly impregnating disabled chorister

Abigail Bonney — Wed, 23 Apr 2025 15:22:12 +0000

The Nigerian police has launched an investigation after a 13-year-old disabled girl was allegedly impregnated by a pastor in the Odigbo Local Government area of the state.

The pastor, whose name was given as Peter James, was, until the incident, the head of charge of Christ Apostolic Church.

He was initially dragged to the palace for allegedly impregnating the minor, said to be a member of the choir of the church.

According to close sources, the pastor had earlier allegedly impregnated their daughter and aborted the pregnancy without their knowledge.

The family source added that the cleric had earlier confessed to being the one who impregnated the girl.

However, trouble reportedly started when the pastor later denied ownership of the pregnancy, for which the matter was later intervened by the zonal headquarters of the church.

All efforts by his colleagues to persuade the pastor to accept responsibility for the pregnancy proved abortive.

According to the mother of the girl, Mrs. Victoria Bernard, the pastor denied the pregnancy because of the girl’s deformity and reported the issue to the police.

Reactions as Niger Governor orders that persons with dreadlocks be arrested

Abigail Bonney — Wed, 23 Apr 2025 10:45:55 +0000

Niger State Governor, Mohammed Bago, has directed security operatives to arrest anyone wearing dreadlocks.

Governor Bago issued the directive during a security meeting held in Minna on Tuesday, stating that the measure was part of efforts to curb the resurgence of insecurity in the state capital.

“Anyone found in possession of any weapon, including knives and sticks, should be treated as an armed robber, and if killed, the parents must pay for the bullet before releasing the corpse. Anyone keeping dreadlock hair should be arrested and shaved,” he stated.

This pronouncement coincided with the governor’s imposition of a dusk-to-dawn curfew across Minna on Tuesday.

Governor Bago further pledged to deploy the full force of his administration against those responsible for perpetuating insecurity in the state.

DAILY POST reports that there has been a surge in attacks and killings in Benue and Plateau States over the past fortnight.

The announcement has been met with mixed reactions—some jubilant, others critical—as many argue it infringes on their right to personal choice.

Nigerians fear savings lost as investment app freezes them out

Dorcas Abedu-Kennedy — Wed, 16 Apr 2025 07:46:03 +0000

Angry Nigerians are turning to social media to describe how they have been locked out of their accounts on the digital financial platform, CBEX.

People have posted videos of themselves crying, saying that they could not withdraw their investments and worried that their money had gone.

Some furious customers ransacked a CBEX office in the south-west city of Ibadan, carting off chairs, air-conditioners and a solar panel. CBEX has not yet publicly commented.

The company had promised that investors would double their money every month. Nigeria is currently facing straitened economic times, and many are desperate to find a way to boost their income.

One investor, identified as Ola, told BBC Pidgin that he feared he had lost 450,000 naira ($280; £210).

“I was ready to withdraw all my investment just last week, but my friend told me to be patient and wait – and now it has crashed,” Ola said.

Many others have shared similar stories online, with one person talking about losing $16,000.

The problem was first noticed over the weekend, but the anger boiled over when Monday came and people were still not able to access their money.

Some investors who made complaints on the private messaging service Telegram received responses from CBEX.

They were told that the problem was the result of a hack and that things will be resolved soon.

Nigeria’s Securities and Exchange Commission (Sec), which regulates the investment sector, has not yet responded to a BBC request for comment. But Sec has previously warned citizens about the risks surrounding unregulated digital platforms and potential Ponzi schemes

For some, the situation brings back painful memories from 2016 when another popular financial scheme, called MMM, froze its transactions, leaving many investors heartbroken.

Members were supposed to receive a 30% return on their investment in just 30 days. It launched in Nigeria in November 2015 and, according to its founders, had up to three million members before it collapsed.

Nigerian bandit kingpin and 100 followers killed

Gertrude Okyere — Mon, 14 Apr 2025 07:23:42 +0000

A notorious bandit kingpin and 100 of his suspected followers have been killed in a joint military operation in north-west Nigeria, authorities say.

Gwaska Dankarami was said to have been a high-value target who reportedly served as second-in-command to an Islamic State-linked leader.

The alleged gang leader had been hiding in the Munumu Forest, with authorities reporting that several other criminal hideouts were also destroyed across the state on Friday.

His apparent death comes after bandits kidnapped 43 villagers and killed four others in a deadly attack on a village called Maigora in the northern Katsina State earlier this week.

The police had said that it deployed security forces in pursuit of the kidnappers.

However, this is not the first time Dankarami’s death has been reported.

In 2022, the Nigerian Airforce claimed to have killed him in a similar operation.

The Katsina State commissioner for internal security and home affairs, Nasir Mua’zu, said the killing was a significant milestone in the fight against banditry in the state.

“It is expedient to state that this successful mission has significantly disrupted the criminal networks that have long terrorised communities across Faskari, Kankara, Bakori, Malumfashi, and Kafur,” Mua’zu added.

Security forces said they had also recovered and destroyed two machine guns and locally fabricated shotguns.

In a separate operation on Thursday, security forces killed six bandits, including their commander, while several other bandits escaped with bullet wounds.

Seven motorcycles were also intercepted and recovered during the intelligence-led operation.

Katsina, the home state of former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari, has witnessed sporadic attacks by bandits and kidnappers that have claimed many lives.

The state governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, has expressed the government’s determination to eliminate criminals and ensure every forest is thoroughly monitored to protect residents.

The authorities said that the operations are part of a broader effort to restore stability in the state and the north-west region of Nigeria, which has witnessed repeated banditry attacks.

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I died, went to heaven but… – Nollywood actress

Gertrude Okyere — Sat, 12 Apr 2025 09:23:51 +0000

Nollywood actress Doris Ogala has shared a deeply personal and spiritual experience, claiming that she died briefly and visited heaven before being sent back to earth.

In an emotional post shared on Instagram on Thursday, Ogala recounted the surreal encounter, stating that she was told by a divine voice that her time on earth was not yet over.

“I may not have much time now. I have to speak up. I died a few days ago. God gave me a second chance,” she wrote.

The actress described her heavenly vision as serene and majestic, where she felt completely free of earthly burdens.

Ogala claimed she was a queen and had servants attending to her.

“I saw myself in heaven. Very peaceful. All my burden was “lifted. I didn’t want to come back. It was so cool and smooth. The feeling is out of this world. I was a queen. I had servants and gold coins everywhere. Believe me, this is what I saw,” she said.

Sharing a short video from the day of the incident, Ogala continued, “I died as you are seeing me here. I was dead physically but I was in heaven. And God said to me, my child go back, it’s not your turn yet.”

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Doris Ogala U (@dorisogala)

She added that she was gently led through a beautiful passage before being told to wait for her time.

Ogala’s testimony has sparked conversations online, with many fans expressing awe and support, while others have responded with curiosity, asking if there were servants in heaven.

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Nigerian governor warns of Boko Haram comeback

Gertrude Okyere — Wed, 09 Apr 2025 17:44:36 +0000

The governor of Nigeria’s Borno state has warned that jihadist group Boko Haram is making a comeback after its fighters staged a series of attacks and seized control of some parts of the north-eastern state.

Babagana Zulum called for more military assistance for soldiers fighting the insurgency.

The Nigerian government has downplayed the governor’s fears, saying security in the country has improved in the last 18 months.

Borno state has been at the centre of a 15-year insurgency by Boko Haram, which has forced more than two million people to flee their homes and killed more than 40,000.

At the height of its insurgency in 2015, Boko Haram controlled huge areas in Borno state before being beaten back.

The militant group gained international notoriety in April 2014 when it kidnapped more than 270 schoolgirls from the town of Chibok, also in Borno state.

Following a relative lull, the militants have been targeting army bases, police stations and rural communities.

In January, an ambush by the Boko Haram breakaway faction, Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), reportedly killed at least 20 Nigerian soldiers, while another attack in the same period left 40 farmers dead.

Governor Zulum said it was disheartening that the group now attacked and kidnapped people in many communities almost on a daily basis.

In a meeting with national security officials, he said that Borno State was “losing ground” against the jihadists.

Security analysts say the concentration of soldiers in north-western Nigeria to deal with banditry and kidnappings has led to a reduction in the number of troops on the frontline with Boko Haram in Borno and other parts of the north-east.

The fight against the militants became even more challenging after neighbouring Niger withdrew its troops from a regional force set up to tackle the jihadist group.

Another analyst, Hamisu Sani, told the BBC that it wouldn’t be easy to defeat Boko Haram, but it wasn’t impossible.

“No matter how our military weakens them, they can always regroup and will remain a threat,” he said.

“The solution would be to crush the fighters in their entirety – which is possible given the right support to our military.”

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Ablakwa tours Dr. Sam Jonah’s 501-hectare River Park estate in Nigeria

Gertrude Okyere — Mon, 07 Apr 2025 11:33:46 +0000

Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has embarked on a three-day working visit to Nigeria.

The trip is aimed at strengthening bilateral ties and promoting Ghanaian businesses abroad under the government’s Economic Diplomacy Blueprint.

As part of the visit, Mr. Ablakwa toured businessman, Sir Sam Jonah’s 501-hectare real estate development in River Park estate.

The project is a partnership between Dr. Jonah’s investment firm, Jonah Capital and Mobus Property and Houses for Africa.

The CEO of Mobus/Houses of Africa Nigeria, Kojo Ansah Mensah, welcomed the Minister on behalf of the project’s Ghanaian founders — Sir Dr. Sam Jonah, KBE, and Ehunabobrim Nana Prah Agyensaim VI, King of the Owirenkyi Kingdom.

Mr Ablakwa, who doubles as the North Tongu MP, commended Nigerian authorities, including the FCT Minister Nyesom Wike and Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun, for their support in safeguarding investor interests.

He emphasised Ghana’s commitment to assisting its businesses abroad: “Let River Park be a clarion call for Ghanaian and Nigerian businesses to build legacies together,” he declared.

In a post on Facebook, Mr. Ablakwa touted the River Park Estate as an “enduring symbol of Ghanaian enterprise and cross-border collaboration,” and assured developers of diplomatic support to navigate local challenges in Nigeria.

He pledged the committment of the Mahama-led administration in extending diplomatic assistance to all Ghanaian businesses and brands as we seek to increase our economic footprints across the world.

“To take advantage of our Economic Diplomacy tools to establish their presence beyond our borders. Your Foreign Ministry is always ready to facilitate and help make your vision a reality. Let’s create more Ghanaian international brands,” he urged.

On the part of Mr. Mensah, he underscored the estate’s significance as a monument to Ghana-Nigeria collaboration, dating back to 2007 when Sir Sam Jonah was appointed to Nigeria’s Honorary Investment Advisory Council by former President Olusegun Obasanjo.

“This is more than a real estate development,” said Mensah. “River Park is a testament to African excellence, a fusion of Ghanaian capital, Nigerian engineering, and West African community spirit,” he said.

Despite its success, River Park Estate has faced regulatory hurdles and misinformation campaigns.

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Nigerian pastor acquitted of rape after eight years in South African jail

Gertrude Okyere — Thu, 03 Apr 2025 06:55:39 +0000

After spending eight years in jail, a Nigerian televangelist accused of raping young women from his South African church has been found not guilty of all charges.

Timothy Omotoso had denied the 32 charges in a trial that was broadcast live and gained huge interest across the country.

In 2018, one witness told the court she had been raped by the pastor, who ran a church in the city of Port Elizabeth, when she was 14 years old.

When delivering the verdict on Wednesday, the judge presiding over the trial said that Mr. Omotoso had been found not guilty because prosecutors had mishandled the case.

South Africa’s National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) shared a similar assessment, saying that “former prosecutors in the case acted improperly and the accused were not sufficiently cross-examined by the state.”

The NPA said it would now “consider its legal options” and that the drawn-out nature of the trial was partly down to Mr. Omotoso filing numerous legal challenges.

For his part, Mr. Omotoso told the media he thanked God for the verdict.

His co-accused, Lusanda Sulani and Zikiswa Sitho, were also found not guilty.

Mr. Omotoso was dramatically arrested at an airport in 2017 as he sought to leave the country.

His trial was the first prominent rape case to be broadcast live in a country where sexual violence is rampant.

The hearings attracted huge interest and raised difficult questions about victims’ rights, impartiality, and whether justice is best served by having television cameras in courtrooms.

Following Wednesday’s verdict, Mr. Omotoso will be deported to Nigeria, South African media outlet News24 reported.

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Fans confused as Wizkid deletes Instagram posts

Gertrude Okyere — Tue, 01 Apr 2025 12:35:02 +0000

Nigerian music star Wizkid has again deleted all posts from his Instagram account, leaving his 18 million followers in suspense.

The unexpected move, which happened on Monday, has sparked widespread speculation, with fans and industry insiders debating its significance.

This isn’t the first time Wizkid has taken such an action.

The Grammy-winning artiste previously wiped his page clean in August 2019 and July 2022, both times ahead of the release of his album More Love, Less Ego.

While the reason behind his latest social media reset remains unclear, fans are eagerly watching for any signs of a new project or major announcement.

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5 dead as Islamic protesters clash with Nigerian military, police

Abigail Bonney — Mon, 31 Mar 2025 08:50:47 +0000

Nigerian police said on Saturday they had come under intense gunfire a day earlier in a neighbourhood of the capital, Abuja, during clashes between security forces and Shi’ite Muslim protesters that led to several reported deaths.

Nigeria has a history of deadly clashes between security forces and members of the banned Shi’ite Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN), which advocates for the peaceful establishment of an Islamic state in Africa’s most populous nation.

On Friday, dozens of the group’s members marched in solidarity with Palestine, but violence broke out when they clashed with soldiers and police.

Critics say Nigerian security forces have increasingly resorted to using force, including live ammunition, to quell protests, and that this could radicalise groups like IMN.

Police in a statement on Saturday accused the protesters of “a violent assault” on security personnel armed with firearms and other lethal weapons in Abuja’s Wuse 2 neighbourhood.

“Police and security personnel encountered intense gunfire from the attackers, resulting in the serious injury of three security operatives,” said Josephine Adeh, police spokesperson for Abuja.

One member of the security forces had died and 19 suspects had been arrested, he said.

Sidi Munir Sokoto, a senior IMN member blamed the military for the violence, saying the protest was peaceful. He put the death toll at five.

“This was the military. The (military) leadership must explain why this happened,” Sokoto said.

An army spokesperson did not respond to a request for comment.

Isa Sanusi, head of Amnesty International Nigeria, called for an impartial investigation.

“The army used live ammunition on the protesters. It appears they approach IMN protesters always with the intent to kill,” Sanusi told Reuters, also putting the death toll at five.

Militants kill 16 on Nigerian army base, military outpost, security sources say

Gertrude Okyere — Thu, 27 Mar 2025 06:41:31 +0000

Suspected Islamist fighters launched a coordinated attack on an army base and a military outpost in Nigeria’s northeastern Borno State, killing at least 16 people, security sources told Reuters.

Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province militants have mainly operated in the northeast of Nigeria, attacking security forces and civilians and killing and displacing tens of thousands of people.

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In the latest assault, Boko Haram insurgents and ISWAP fighters struck an army base in the Wajiroko area of Borno State at about 2100 GMT on Monday and set military equipment on fire, the sources said.

One of the soldiers in the Wajiroko brigade said at least four soldiers had been killed and several others injured, including the brigade commander.

Armed fighters in light tactical vehicles also stormed an outpost in Wulgo, a village about 12 kilometres (7.5 miles) from the Cameroonian border town of Fotokol, killing 12 soldiers and injuring a dozen others, Cameroon’s Defence Ministry said on Wednesday.

A military source who asked not to be named told Reuters the raid that targeted soldiers who are fighting the insurgency as part of a multinational task force took place between midnight and 3 a.m. local time on Tuesday.

The source added the militants were suspected to have initially launched their attack using drones before advancing with a ground assault. “They looted an important stockpile of weapons,” the source said.

Videos shared on social media showed bloodied bodies lying on the ground after the attack, charred patrol vehicles and damaged buildings. Reuters could not independently verify those videos.

A Nigerian army spokesperson did not respond to requests for comment. Cameroon army spokesperson Cyrille Serge Atonfack Guemo confirmed the attack but said the casualty figures were still unclear.

Makinta Modu, a member of a local militia recruited to help the Nigerian army, said in the Wajiroko attack militants overran an army “forward operation base”.

“Around 10:30 p.m. (2130 GMT) air force fighter jets came for reinforcement … and killed many of the ISWAP fighters that captured the military base,” Modu said. It was not clear whether the army had regained control over the base.

Although weakened by military assaults and internal fighting over the years, Boko Haram and ISWAP have stepped up attacks on military and civilian targets in Borno this year.

An Islamist insurgency has plagued the northeast of Africa’s most populous country for more than a decade, while kidnapping and banditry are rampant in the northwest and gang and separatist violence is common in the southeast.

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My husband makes love from midnight to dawn – Woman seeking divorce tells court

Abigail Bonney — Wed, 26 Mar 2025 20:07:32 +0000

A 37-year-old woman, Linda Stephen, has approached a Customary Court seeking a divorce from her husband, Felix Stephen, citing his excessive sexual demands and alleged physical abuse.

In her petition, Linda told the court that she could no longer cope with her husband’s constant need for sex, which she described as unbearable.

“I urge the court to dissolve this marriage because I can’t stand his excessive sexual urge. He likes sex too much, and I can’t bear it,” she said. She further alleged that Felix frequently subjected her to long hours of sexual activity, even when she was in distress.

“Most times, he would have sex with me from midnight till early hours of the morning. Even when I am crying, he will not stop.

“It has been three months since I moved out of his house. His relatives have been pleading with me to go back to him, but they do not know what I am facing,” she added.

Linda also accused her husband of resorting to violence whenever she refused his advances, stating that he had beaten her in front of their two children.

In his defense, Felix admitted to his actions but pleaded with the court not to grant his wife’s request, expressing his willingness to change.

“I took my uncles and friends to her parents’ house to plead with her. But she refused to listen to us; instead, she walked out on us,” he said. He further begged the court for time to reconcile with his wife, assuring them that he was ready to control his sexual urges.

Presiding over the case, Judge John Dauda adjourned the matter until May 6 to allow for reconciliation efforts, urging both parties to maintain peace in the meantime.

Energy crisis worsens as Dangote refinery suspends sale of petrol in Nigeria

Abigail Bonney — Thu, 20 Mar 2025 12:20:07 +0000

Dangote Refinery has announced a temporary suspension of petroleum product sales in naira, citing the need to align its sales currency with its crude oil procurement obligations, which are currently denominated in U.S. dollars.

The dispute with Dangote refinery stems from the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited’s naira-for-crude policy requiring local refiners to purchase crude oil in naira instead of dollars, an initiative aimed at stabilizing foreign exchange reserves.

While the deal was in effect, the refinery sold Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) to Nigerian marketers in naira because it purchased crude in the local currency under its agreement with NNPC.

However, with the deal set to expire this month, The Cable reports that the refinery has announced plans to halt the loading of petroleum products for the Nigerian market, as negotiations to renew the naira-for-crude arrangement have not made significant progress.

Following the expiration of the initial naira-for-crude deal, Business Insider Africa earlier reported that the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited confirmed ongoing negotiations for a new agreement with Dangote Petroleum Refinery.

NNPC’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Olufemi Soneye, stated that the initial agreement was structured as a six-month contract, set to expire in March 2025.

Analysts warn that Dangote’s reluctance to supply the Nigerian market could exacerbate fuel scarcity

This development comes amid concerns that Nigerians may face another hike in petrol prices after reports emerged that NNPC has halted its naira-for-crude deal with Dangote and other local refineries.

Impact on Dangote Refinery

The Dangote Refinery, which has a production capacity of 650,000 barrels per day, is a critical player in Nigeria’s efforts to achieve self-sufficiency in petroleum products.

However, the unresolved naira-for-crude arrangement has created uncertainties regarding crude supply, potentially delaying the refinery’s full operations and limiting its ability to distribute petrol domestically.

Analysts warn that Dangote’s reluctance to supply the Nigerian market could exacerbate fuel scarcity and increase dependence on imported refined products, undermining the country’s energy security goals.

With the deal now coming to an end, there are fears that if local refineries, including Dangote, are forced to source crude in dollars, production costs could rise significantly.

This shift could put additional pressure on the naira and ultimately lead to an increase in petrol pump prices.

The situation further highlights the broader challenges in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector, including foreign exchange volatility and regulatory uncertainties, which continue to impact investment and operational efficiency.

If the deadlock persists, the Nigerian government may have to negotiate new terms to ensure that the Dangote Refinery remains a reliable source of petroleum products for the local market.

Nigeria declares state of emergency in Rivers State over pipeline vandalism

Gertrude Okyere — Wed, 19 Mar 2025 07:01:03 +0000

Nigerian President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency on Tuesday in oil-producing Rivers State and suspended the state governor, his deputy and all lawmakers.

Tinubu, in a television broadcast, said he had received security reports in the last two days of “disturbing incidents of vandalization of pipelines by some militants without the governor taking any action to curtail them.”

“With all these and many more, no good and responsible president will standby and allow the grave situation to continue without taking remedial steps prescribed by the constitution to address the situation in the state,” added Tinubu.

Police said earlier they were investigating the cause of a blast in Rivers state that resulted in a fire on Nigeria’s Trans Niger Pipeline, a major oil artery transporting crude from onshore oilfields to the Bonny export terminal.

Rivers, in the Niger Delta, is a major source of crude oil and militants have in the past blown up pipelines, hampering production and exports.

The state has been embroiled in a political crisis pitting factions of the opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP) against each other. The state lawmakers had also threatened to impeach the governor and his deputy.

Tinubu’s state of emergency enables the federal government to make regulations to run the state and also allow authorities to easily deploy security forces to bring order if needed.

Tinubu nominated a retired vice admiral as caretaker to run the affairs of Rivers State for an initial six months.

The president said he had sent a copy of his proclamation to the National Assembly, which can endorse or reject his decision.

“For the avoidance of doubt, this declaration does not affect the judicial arm of Rivers State, which shall continue to function in accordance with their constitutional mandate,” said Tinubu.

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Newlyweds killed in gas tanker explosion

Gertrude Okyere — Sun, 16 Mar 2025 12:37:09 +0000

A newlywed couple, Dozie and Joan Okoye, have died in a gas explosion on the Otedola Bridge along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.

The couple, who reportedly got married on February 22, 2025, were caught in the blast on their way home.

Their phone lines suddenly became unreachable, and the only clue to their identity was their car’s registration number, which was found among the burnt vehicles.

The deceased couple

After searching for them at the Burns Center in Gbagada and Yaba Mortuary, their charred remains were discovered on Wednesday evening.

The explosion, which occurred at 8:08 PM on Tuesday, March 11, 2025, was triggered by a 30-tonne tanker carrying gas products, reportedly owned by a nearby gas station. The blast severely affected De-Twist Dental Clinic, while the generator house and security post of a nearby church building also sustained significant damage.

Responders recovered four charred bodies from the scene, including that of an auto mechanic identified as Rotimi Adeleye.

Friends and loved ones have taken to social media to mourn their untimely passing.

BBNaija’s Nengi welcomes baby girl

Gertrude Okyere — Tue, 11 Mar 2025 11:27:55 +0000

Big Brother Naija Lockdown second runner-up, Rebecca Nengi Hampson, has welcomed a baby girl.

Sharing the news on Instagram, Nengi announced that she gave birth on February 21, 2025.

Describing her daughter as “the purest form of love” and “the most precious gift,” she expressed gratitude for the new chapter in her life.

Alongside her announcement, she shared heartwarming visuals of her pregnancy journey and delivery.

“My greatest blessing, my heart in human form, my purpose. God knew I needed you, my baby… I love you more than words could ever explain. It’s us forever,” she wrote.

Her announcement has drawn congratulatory messages from fans, followers, and colleagues in the Nigerian creative arts industry.

Read the full post below:

View this post on Instagram.

A post shared by Nengi Hampson (@nengiofficial)

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Court grants Jude Okoye $67k bail in alleged $865k fraud case

Gertrude Okyere — Fri, 07 Mar 2025 06:59:28 +0000

A Federal High Court in Ikoyi, Lagos, has granted Jude Okoye, the elder brother and former manager of the defunct music group P-Square, bail in the sum of N100 million ($67,000) ahead of his trial for alleged fraud.

Okoye was arraigned by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on charges of laundering N1.38 billion, $1 million, and £34,537.59.

He pleaded not guilty and was initially remanded in the Ikoyi Correctional Facility by Justice Alexander Owoeye.

His counsel, Inibehe Effiong, had requested that he be kept in EFCC custody instead, but the prosecution counsel, Larry Peters Aso, opposed the request.

During Friday’s hearing, the defense filed a bail application, which the prosecution countered with an affidavit, arguing that Okoye posed a flight risk and could interfere with witnesses.

On Monday, the judge ruled in favor of granting bail, setting conditions that require Okoye to provide two sureties, each with landed property in Lagos worth N100 million.

The court must verify the property documents, and Okoye is prohibited from traveling outside Nigeria without approval.

Justice Owoeye stated that Okoye would remain in custody until he meets the bail conditions. His trial is set to begin on April 14, 2025.

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Nigerian Socialite pleads guilty to $3 million fraud after arrest on wedding day

Abigail Bonney — Tue, 04 Mar 2025 14:20:10 +0000

Nigerian Socialite Darlington Akporugo Faces 25 Years for Leading Multimillion-Dollar Romance Scam

Nigerian socialite Darlington Akporugo is facing up to 25 years in prison after confessing to leading a multimillion-dollar romance scam that targeted dozens of victims, mainly elderly individuals, across Houston and other parts of the United States.

The 47-year-old was set to marry his fiancée, Jasmin Sood, in early 2024 when U.S. law enforcement arrested him just hours before the ceremony.

His arrest followed an extensive investigation by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) into a Houston-based syndicate involved in romance fraud.

Akporugo, who is in the U.S. illegally, pleaded guilty to charges of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, mail fraud, and aiding and abetting wire fraud in the U.S.

District Court for the Southern District of Texas. He admitted to defrauding over 25 victims, many of whom were retirees or widows, out of millions of dollars.

“This individual and his co-conspirators preyed on the vulnerability of the elderly and recently widowed, robbing them of their hard-earned life savings,” said Chad Plantz, Special Agent in Charge at ICE Homeland Security Investigations. He praised the cooperation between domestic and international law enforcement in dismantling the fraud ring.

As part of his plea, Akporugo confessed that he and his accomplices created fake identities on social media platforms, primarily Facebook, to manipulate individuals into fraudulent investments or fabricated personal emergencies. Victims were then tricked into transferring money to accounts controlled by Akporugo and his associates, with the funds later funneled to overseas accounts.

Akporugo remains in custody ahead of his sentencing, scheduled for June 6. After completing his prison term, he is likely to be deported from the United States.

5 dead, 20 missing as boat conveying burial guests capsizes

Abigail Bonney — Wed, 26 Feb 2025 12:50:15 +0000

A tragic boat accident in the Warri South Local Government Area of Delta State has left at least five people dead, with 20 others still missing.

The incident occurred on Monday evening, February 24, when speedboats carrying passengers returning from a burial collided and capsized.

Eyewitnesses reported that many of the passengers were not wearing life jackets, which may have contributed to the high number of casualties.

Rescue efforts are ongoing, with local divers and marine units assisting in the search for the missing persons.

The Delta State Police Command has confirmed the accident, with spokesperson Edafe Bright stating that six survivors were rescued and are currently receiving medical treatment at an undisclosed hospital in Warri.

Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the exact cause of the collision and enforce safety measures on water transport routes in the area.

Akufo-Addo urges Nigeria to lead Africa’s economic integration

Faridatu Seidu — Fri, 21 Feb 2025 10:12:22 +0000

Former President Nana Akufo-Addo has called on Nigeria to take a leading role in driving Africa’s economic integration, emphasizing the need for bold leadership and concrete action.

Speaking at an event hosted by the IBB Presidential Foundation in Abuja, Nigeria, on Thursday, February 20, Akufo-Addo highlighted Nigeria’s strategic position in shaping Africa’s economic future.

“Nigeria, with its enormous economic and human potential, must play a leading role in shaping Africa’s economic trajectory. We must move beyond rhetoric and translate our ambitions for integration into tangible actions,” he stated.

The former ECOWAS Chair stressed that Nigeria’s vast resources and regional influence position it as a key driver of Africa’s economic transformation. He noted that for the continent to break free from dependency on foreign aid and prioritize self-sufficiency, Nigeria must play an integral role.

“Our generation must develop the tools to resolve the tensions that exist between governance, economic development, and social stability,” he said.

On governance, Akufo-Addo reaffirmed his strong belief in democracy, citing Ghana’s track record of peaceful democratic transitions over the past three decades. He also acknowledged former Nigerian military leader General Ibrahim Babangida for ultimately embracing democratic governance despite his military background.

“The fundamental question remains: who confers legitimacy on a government? Is it an enlightened elite, or is it the ordinary people expressing their will freely?” he asked.

Expressing confidence in Africa’s democratic evolution, Akufo-Addo urged nations to strengthen their institutions while championing economic self-reliance.

He concluded by calling for deeper collaboration between Ghana and Nigeria as a cornerstone of Africa’s quest for economic independence and sustainable development.

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Pastor arrested by FBI for multi-million dollar internet fraud

Abigail Bonney — Thu, 20 Feb 2025 18:51:49 +0000

The FBI has arrested Nigerian Pastor Edward Abiodun Oluwasanmi for allegedly conspiring with Osun monarch, Oba Joseph Oloyede, to defraud the U.S. government of $4.2 million in COVID-19 relief funds.

Oluwasanmi, alongside Oloyede, allegedly submitted forged documents to apply for the loans intended to support struggling businesses during the pandemic.

Oluwasanmi used his three companies—Dayspring Property Incorporated, Dayspring Holdings, and Dayspring Transportation—to secure millions of dollars, which he later diverted for personal expenses, violating U.S. federal laws.

The Nigerian pastor, who resides in the U.S., was indicted on a 13-count fraud charge and arrested in Cleveland in April.

He was later released on $20,000 bail under the condition that he appear for trial and serve any prison sentence if convicted.

In September 2020, Oluwasanmi transferred approximately $221,880 to purchase commercial property on South Freen Road in South Euclid, Ohio.

On October 26, 2021, he transferred $1 million in COVID-19 relief funds to his company, Dayspring Transportation’s brokerage account.

Prosecutors have seized around $620,000 from Oluwasanmi, and they are seeking to forfeit that amount, along with other properties acquired through the fraudulent activities.

The FBI also seized $599,250 from his Dayspring Transportation account at Fidelity Investments and nearly $20,000 from his Dayspring Property account at Key Bank, both on April 5, 2024.

To ensure his appearance in court, Oluwasanmi’s U.S. and Nigerian passports have been confiscated.

Nigeria to ban 60,000- and 45,000-litre tankers to curb accidents

Faridatu Seidu — Thu, 20 Feb 2025 09:57:36 +0000

Nigeria may face a tanker shortage as the Federal Government moves to ban 60,000- and 45,000-litre capacity petroleum trucks.

The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) announced on Wednesday that tankers exceeding 60,000 litres would be banned immediately, while 45,000-litre tankers would be phased out by the fourth quarter of 2025.

This decision follows a surge in tanker-related accidents, which have led to deaths and property destruction.

Nigeria, which relies on road transport for fuel distribution due to the absence of functional pipelines, has seen its road infrastructure deteriorate under the weight of heavy tankers.

NMDPRA Executive Director for Distribution Systems, Ogbugo Ukoha, told journalists in Abuja that the move was necessary to curb accidents and protect lives.

“Every life lost is one too many. We cannot fold our hands and wait for pipelines or railways to become viable alternatives. This is the work we must do, and we will not back down,” Ukoha stated.

Reports indicate that between 2010 and 2025, over 2,500 tanker crashes have claimed more than 3,500 lives in Nigeria. The deadliest incident occurred in Jigawa in 2024 when an overturned fuel tanker exploded, killing dozens and leaving behind a mass grave.

Despite a 2020 agreement to cap truckloads at 45,000 litres, tankers exceeding 60,000 litres have continued to operate, worsening road safety concerns.

The NMDPRA assured a phased implementation of the ban, starting with the immediate prohibition of 60,000-litre tankers and a gradual phase-out of 45,000-litre trucks by late 2025.

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‘Help me; I’m tired of begging’ – Popular actress cries out

Gertrude Okyere — Wed, 19 Feb 2025 09:15:40 +0000

Popular Nollywood actress Halima Abubakar has made an emotional appeal for assistance, revealing her ongoing struggles to make ends meet.

During an Instagram Live session on Tuesday, Abubakar recounted her challenges, stating that she has been living in her village for over a year.

Expressing distress over her condition, the actress emphasized that she was unwell and needed support. She shared her account details, urging Nigerians to come to her aid.

“Good morning. People are confused about what is going on. This is me, but every day, I post a picture with a filter because I don’t want to post how I look, and some of you will say I’m lying. Why would I be lying that I’m sick? I went to the biggest hospital in Nigeria.

“You sacked me from Nollywood, which is okay, but what are all these betrayals? They said I was never sick. I was lying. I was in the village for more than a year. I moved here recently because of the hospital I go to for checkups, so I’m around here, and I’m done. There is nothing wrong with me medically.

“My best friend said I’m lying, that I’m acting sick. You are a wicked person. How will someone lie in sickness? Do you know how many people I have been begging? I have been begging everyone to get medication—no work.

“My best friend said I’m lying; she did not even come to check up on me. Do you want me to die? Do you want me to kill myself? I won’t even mention her because that shows me that she was never my best friend.

“The whole of Nollywood doesn’t talk to me. I go from DM to DM, trying to see who will help me. I was rich; I sold my three cars, not doing anything.”

Her revelation has sparked widespread reactions on social media, with many expressing concern over her well-being.

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Missing final-year student found dead in Facebook friend’s room

Abigail Bonney — Sun, 16 Feb 2025 14:27:24 +0000

A final-year student of the Kwara State College of Education, Lawal Hafsoh Yetunde, has been found dismembered in the home of an Islamic cleric she reportedly met on Facebook.

The suspect, identified as Abdulrahman Mohad Ballo, was arrested in connection with the gruesome killing, which police believe may have been for ritual purposes.

According to the Kwara State Police Command, Yetunde was last seen on Monday, February 10, 2025, when she attended a naming ceremony.

Witnesses say she received a call during the event, stepped aside to answer it, and left shortly afterward, never to return.

Her worried family reported her missing at the Oja-Oba Police Station in Ilorin on Tuesday, February 11.

Detectives immediately began tracking her phone number, which led them to the suspect’s residence in the Offa Garage district of Ilorin.

Initially, Ballo denied any knowledge of the student’s whereabouts. However, a search of his premises revealed the grim truth. Police discovered Yetunde’s dismembered body hidden in a bowl, alongside tools suspected to have been used in the act.

Confronted with the evidence, Ballo confessed that Yetunde had indeed visited him but claimed she died of an asthma attack.

Investigators, however, suspect foul play, given the condition of the remains and the discovery of ritualistic items in his home.

Police sources suggest this may not have been Ballo’s first offense, as several suspicious tools were found in his possession, indicating a possible pattern of ritual killings.

The family of the deceased is devastated, calling for justice to be served.

Meanwhile, the police say investigations are ongoing to uncover the full extent of the crime and any possible accomplices.

Nigeria angered after military chief was denied Canada entry

Gertrude Okyere — Sat, 15 Feb 2025 12:52:39 +0000

The Nigerian government has condemned Canada for denying visas to its senior military officers, including the head of the military.

Chief of Defence Staff Gen Christopher Musa said half of his delegation, who were supposed to be in Canada for an official assignment on Wednesday, were left in Nigeria after not getting the correct paperwork.

Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo condemned the action by Canadian officials, terming it “disrespectful” to the West African country.

The Canadian High Commission in Nigeria said it was aware of the matter but declined to give further details for “privacy reasons” on the specific individuals involved.

It comes two weeks after Canada introduced new regulations that grant immigration officers explicit authority to cancel temporary resident documents under specific circumstances.

The changes were aimed at bolstering border security, maintaining the integrity of visa programmes and protecting public safety, according to the Canadian authorities.

Speaking on Thursday, Gen Musa said how he and his colleagues were blocked from attending an event in Canada meant to honour war veterans.

“We were invited along with our team, but while half of us got visas, the other half was denied. It’s very disappointing,” he added.

He termed the incident a “wake-up call” for Nigeria to strengthen its sovereignty and “refuse to be taken for granted”.

Nuhu Ribadu, a national security adviser, who spoke at the same event on Thursday, expressed disappointment at the move, calling it “disrespectful” saying Canada “can go to hell”.

“This is yet another reason we must work hard to make Nigeria work,” Mr Ribadu added.

During an interview on Nigerian TV on Friday, Tunji-Ojo said Canada’s action was unjustifiable, noting that diplomatic channels could have been used to address any concerns.

“If that can happen to the chief of defence staff, then I am worried for an average Nigerian,” the interior minister said.

He was however hopeful that the matter would be resolved diplomatically to ensure mutual respect between both nations

Nigeria angered after military chief denied Canada entry

Faridatu Seidu — Fri, 14 Feb 2025 16:10:00 +0000