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 My UK wife connived with Nigerian pastor to jail me – Man facing deportation In this feature, a Nigerian man narrates how some partners exploit legal and immigration systems as a tool for revenge, using them to arrest and deport their spouses, VICTOR AYENI writes When Fred Omoruyi first met Jane in Accra, Ghana, in 2019, he had no idea that their acquaintance would spiral into a nightmare—one that would push him to the brink of deportation in the United Kingdom. The 33-year-old, a professional footballer who grew up in Benin City, Edo State, left Nigeria in 2009, shortly after his secondary school education. After relocating to Ghana to pursue his lifelong dream of becoming a footballer, Omoruyi travelled across West Africa to participate in soccer tournaments. Through a friend named Jerry, he gained recognition among music artistes and producers in Nigeria, Ghana and beyond. “It was during my time there that a lady called me one day,” Omoruyi recalled during an X space hosted by ...

 Dangerous sexual predator Armstrong to rot in jail for abusing two children A man, Jamal Armstrong has been sentenced to 11 years and nine months in prison for sexually abusing two children. Armstrong, 35, of no fixed address, was sentenced at Woolwich Crown Court on 21 March. He was also given a Sexual Harm Prevention Order and a restraining order relating to the victims. Armstrong pleaded guilty on 17 December 2024 to multiple charges, including two counts of sexual assault by penetration and four counts of sexual assault on a female under 13. According to Met Police, the incidents took place in Greenwich between November 2023 and August 2024. The victims, both aged 12 at the time, reported their experiences in August 2024, leading to an investigation by the Metropolitan Police’s Public Protection South East team. Armstrong was arrested on 14 August 2024 while preparing to leave the country and was later charged. Detective Constable Callum Boast, who worked on the case, acknowle...

 Khamenei dismisses US threats as Iran marks new year Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has stated that Iran is not swayed by the recurring threats from the United States. The U.S. government this week placed a bounty on four Chinese nationals accused of supporting Iran. On Friday, Khamenei addressed thousands of people at the Imam Khomeini Hussainiyah on the first day of the year 1404 in the Iranian solar calendar. The head of the Islamic Revolution condemned the statements made by U.S. authorities, warning America that “when facing Iran, threats will never achieve anything.” Khamenei cautioned that if the U.S. or any other entity commits a malicious act against the Iranian nation, “they will receive a severe blow.” He also criticised Western leaders for continually labelling Iran as the backbone of militant forces, arguing that each group has its own ideology and motive. “Why do you label them as proxies?” Khamenei asked. “The people of Yemen and the resistance centres in the...

 APPLICATION FOR ADMISSION INTO NIGERIAN NAVY MILITARY/SECONDARY SCHOOLS 2025/2026 ACADEMIC SESSION THIS IS TO INFORM THE GENERAL PUBLIC THAT APPLICATION INTO JSS1 NIGERIAN NAVY MILITARY  SCHOOL IKOT-NTUEN AND 8 OTHER NIGERIAN NAVY SECONDARY SCHOOLS FOR 2025/2026 ACADEMIC SESSION HAS COMMENCED. • Note: Interested Candidates are to note that application for admission into Nigerian Navy Military School  IKOT-NTUEN closes on 23rd June 2025 while that of other Nigerian Navy Secondary Schools will close on the 17th of June 2025. HOW TO APPLY 1. Interested candidates are to visit the Directorate of Naval Education website at www.nnedu.org , select their respective application category (Military or Secondary School) and create a new user account by clicking on Military School/Secondary Application (as the case maybe). 2. After a successful sign up, log in back and proceed to make payment of the sum of #3,050.00 only via online payment platform. The system is secured and wi...

 Professor Qurix Sworn In As Pioneer Vice Chancellor Of Federal University Of Applied Sciences Kachia Professor W.B. Qurix has been officially sworn in as the pioneer Vice Chancellor of the Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kachia.  The swearing-in ceremony took place at the Federal Secretariat, Abuja, and was conducted by the Minister of Education. Alongside Professor Qurix, members of the Board of Governing Council and other key management staff of the university were also sworn in. Professor Qurix, a seasoned academic and administrator, has previously served as the Vice Chancellor of Bingham University and Kaduna State University.  His vast experience is expected to play a crucial role in shaping the newly established university's vision and academic direction. The Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kachia, is set to enhance applied sciences education in Nigeria, with a focus on innovation and practical learning.

 Ogun to Take Over 9 Megawatts Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority's Hydro Power Plant - Abiodun Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun has disclosed that the state government is considering generating electricity from the 9 Megawatts hydro power plant, located within the Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority. The governor, who stated this during an on-the-spot assessment of facilities at the Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority on Friday, said that his administration is already in alliance with the Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE) on the modalities for the takeover. He said that taking over the hydro power plant will boost his administration's plan to improve power supply across the state, as it would be merged with the 30 Megawatts power plant in Onijanganjangan, which, being gas-fired, would ensure that the state has the right energy mix. Governor Abiodun stated that the abandoned dam and hydro power plant, commissioned in 1983, represents stranded r...

 Eniola Badmus Visits Nigerian High Commission in Namibia Renowned Nollywood actress Eniola Badmus has been spotted at the High Commission of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in Namibia. While the purpose of her visit remains undisclosed, her presence at the diplomatic office has sparked curiosity among fans and followers. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.  More photos below. 

 Nkechi Blessing Speaks on Losing Brand Deals Due to “Controversial” Label Actress Nkechi Blessing has opened up about how being tagged as controversial is affecting her career. She revealed that while she has had private relationships, the one that made headlines shaped public perception of her. Now, brands and potential business partners hesitate to work with her due to negative third-party opinions. Nkechi admits she played a role in the situation but regrets its impact on her opportunities.

 Nollywood Mourns as Veteran Actress Nkechi Nweje Passes Away The Nigerian film industry has been thrown into mourning following reports of the passing of veteran Nollywood actress Nkechi Nweje. Known for her impactful roles in numerous Nollywood movies, her death has left fans and colleagues heartbroken. Tributes have poured in from fellow actors and industry insiders, who describe her as a talented and passionate actress. While the cause of her death remains unclear, her legacy in the Nigerian entertainment industry is undeniable. May her soul rest in peace. 🕊️ One more photo below. 

 PRESS RELEASE EFFECTIVE POLICING: IGP DEPLOYS 9 CPs TO COMMANDS, 29 CPs TO FORMATIONS. Harps on Robust Intelligence-led Policing The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM., has ordered the immediate posting of 38 Commissioners of Police to various State Commands and Police Formations. The deployment comprises 9 CPs to key state commands and an additional 29 CPs to various police formations across the country.  The Commissioners of Police deployed to state commands include CP Ibrahim Balarabe Maikaba to Zamfara State, CP Bretet Emmanuel Simon to Taraba State, CP Christopher Ado Emmanuel to Yobe State, CP Olusegun Eyitayo Omosayin to Cross-River State, CP Adamu Abdullahi Elleman to Niger State, CP Sani Omolori Aliyu to Bauchi State, CP Bello Shehu to Katsina State, CP Saka Adewale Ajao as Commissioner of Police, Federal Capital Territory (FCT), and CP Ojo Adekimi to Kwara State. In addition to these State Command appointments, the deployment also ...

 SANWO-OLU RESTATES COMMITMENT TO SPORTS, AS LAGOS HOSTS MAIDEN SOUTH-WEST GAMES •Organisers Laud Lagos Governor For Infrastructural Development     The Chairman of the South-West Governors Forum and Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu has expressed the readiness of Lagos to host the maiden edition of the South West Games.   The South-West Games scheduled for March 26 to 28 will provide an avenue for athletes from the six states in the region – Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Ondo and Ekiti – to compete in different sports activities at the Teslim Balogun Stadium, Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Rowe Park and Yaba College of Education.   The Governor assured the organisers and all the participants that the Lagos State Government will provide safe and adequate sporting facilities for the maiden edition of the game.   Governor Sanwo-Olu spoke during a courtesy visit and presentation of a customised jersey to him by the South West Games 2025 Committee led by its Pres...

 NUJ LAGOS INFORMATION CHAPEL HOLDS 20TH ANNUAL RAMADAN LECTURE The Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) Lagos Information Chapel recently held its 20th annual Ramadan Lecture, focusing on navigating socio-economic challenges. This year's edition of the lecture, themed: "The Harsh Realities of Economic Survival: Islamic Perspective" took place recently at the Lagos Secretariat Community Central Mosque Multipurpose Hall. In his welcome remarks, the Chairman, NUJ Lagos Information Chapel, Mr. Debo Adeniji, expressed his profound gratitude to the Chairman Planning Committee, Mr. Shaakir Badmus for their efforts in organising the lecture and acknowledged the presence of the Chairman of the occasion, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mr. Olanrewaju Bajulaiye and the executive members of the union. According to the Chairman, the lecture's theme is timely and thought-provoking and resonates deeply in our current economic climate, adding that the ...

 Congratulations to Nigeria as they scored their first two goals, first half of the match. Ademola Lookman passed the ball to Osimeh, and Osimeh scored. The second goal, Osimeh scored the second goal.  The played the world cup qualifier at Amahoro stadium, Rwanda.  One more photo below. 

  Operatives of the Uyo Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, have arrested  10 suspected internet fraudsters  in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. They were arrested on Thursday March 20, 2025 in a coordinated sting operation at different locations across Uyo.  While five were arrested at Shelter Afrique, others were arrested at Ifa, off Oron Road, both in  Uyo.     Two of the arrested suspects are undergraduates, three are online cloth vendors, one  forex trader and another one film director Items covered from them include 21 mobile phones, six laptops, one international passport and three luxury cars    The suspects will be charged to court as soon as investigations are concluded.

 Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah is sworn in as Namibia’s first female leader Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah was sworn in as Namibia’s first female president on Friday, reaching the highest office in her land nearly 60 years after she joined the liberation movement fighting for independence from apartheid South Africa, AP reported. The 72-year-old Nandi-Ndaitwah won an election in November to become one of just a handful of female leaders in Africa after the likes of Ellen Johnson Sirleaf of Liberia, Joyce Banda of Malawi and Samia Suluhu Hassan of Tanzania. Sirleaf and Banda, now former leaders of their countries, and current Tanzania President Hassan all attended Nandi-Ndaitwah’s inauguration. Nandi-Ndaitwah’s swearing-in coincided with the 35th anniversary of Namibia’s independence, but the ceremony was switched from a soccer stadium where thousands were due to attend to the official presidential office because of heavy rain. The new president made her pledge to defend, uphold and support the co...

 NADECA commends Akpabio, Abbas over NASS endorsement of Rivers emergency rule …says Tinubu’s action necessary to reset Rivers The National Democratic Coalition (NADECA), a coalition of over 100 pro-democracy groups in Africa, has commended Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas for their leadership in securing the National Assembly’s endorsement of the state of emergency in Rivers State. In a statement signed on Thursday evening by Dr. Chukwuma Eze, President-General of NADECA, the coalition said it took 72 hours to critically assess the situation before arriving at its position, unlike other groups that rushed to conclusions.  NADECA described President Bola Tinubu’s decision as a necessary intervention to restore order and governance in Rivers State. The coalition insisted that without the emergency measures, the crisis in Rivers could have escalated beyond control, further threatening democratic stability in the country...

 Deadly earthquake rocks Iran A 4.8-magnitude earthquake shook an area of central Iran on Friday, said the US Geological Survey. Reports said the earthquake hit the Natanz area of Isfahan, home to a key Iranian nuclear site. The USGS said the quake struck 30 kilometers northwest of Ardestan and had a depth of 10 kilometers. The quake’s epicenter was said to be in Natanz. The disturbing incident happened at around 10:23 local time in Iran. Although authorities are yet to provide detailed information on potential casualties, it was gathered that many buildings were destroyed.

 Rivers Emergency: I Was Not Among 42 Senators Who Collected $10,000 From Akpabio – Umeh Senator Victor Umeh, representing Anambra Central Senatorial District, has denied allegations that he received dollars to support the State of Emergency declared by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in Rivers State. Senator Umeh in a statement warned against serial blackmail noting he was not among the 42 senators who collected $10,000 the previous day before the senators passed the state of emergency resolution. He emphasized that he did not receive any money to support the Approval of the State of Emergency in Rivers State and was not present at the alleged Meeting on Wednesday where $10,000 was allegedly made to 42 Senators, let alone one of the Key Figures that organized the Event. “I did not receive any money to support the Approval of the State of Emergency in Rivers State. I was not at any meeting where such payments were allegedly made,” Umeh stated. Umeh explained that on the evening of Tues...

 Tinubu Taken to ECOWAS Court Over Rivers State Emergency Rule The federal government, led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has been sued at the ECOWAS Court of Justice in Abuja over the declaration of a state of emergency and the suspension of elected officials in Rivers State. Legal Challenge Against Emergency Rule In a suit filed on March 20, 2025 (ECW/CCJ/APP/18/25), the applicants are seeking a court order to nullify the suspension of elected officials and the removal of democratic structures in Rivers State. The plaintiffs, Harry Ibiso and 11 others, along with the Eastern Zone of the Ijaw Youth Council, also demand the cancellation of all decisions, policies, and directives issued by the Sole Administrator, retired Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas, who was appointed by President Tinubu on March 18. Claim: Tinubu Lacked Authority to Remove Elected Officials The applicants argue that President Tinubu, as an elected official, lacks the constitutional authority to remove or suspend a s...

 SANWO-OLU APPOINTS, DEPLOYS SEASONED PR PROFESSIONAL AS TOURISM'S NEW PERMANENT SECRETARY  The Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture now has a new Permanent Secretary, Mr. Olanrewaju Bajulaiye, following his swearing-in alongside seven other newly appointed Permanent Secretaries by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu at Lagos House, Ikeja.  His appointment is part of the Lagos State Government’s commitment to strengthening public service leadership and ensuring the effective implementation of the THEMES Plus Agenda. With a dynamic arts scene, a rich cultural heritage, and a thriving entertainment industry, Lagos is a leading hub for tourism and creative excellence and Bajuilaye’s appointment is expected to inject fresh energy and strategic direction into the Ministry, reinforcing Lagos State’s position as a premier cultural and tourism destination. With him coming on board, the Ministry is poised to deepen collaborations between the government, private sector stakeh...

  The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has issued a warning to the public to be cautious of fraudulent recruitment advertisements circulating online. The company stated that it is not currently conducting any recruitment process. In a statement released on its official social media handle on Friday, NNPCL cautioned job seekers against falling victim to fake recruitment schemes. The company emphasized that all legitimate job openings will only be announced through its official website and verified social media platforms. NNPCL reiterated that its recruitment process is transparent, merit-based, and does not require external assistance. The company urged Nigerians to disregard any unofficial job advertisements claiming to be from NNPCL, as they could be attempts to defraud unsuspecting applicants. The management assured the public that it remains committed to upholding the integrity of its hiring process and will notify Nigerians whenever recruitment officially com...

 Italy’s Top Court Grants Single People Right to Adopt Abroad Italy’s Constitutional Court has ruled that single individuals can adopt children from abroad, overturning a law that previously restricted international adoptions to married couples. Landmark Ruling Expands Adoption Rights In a decision hailed as historic by opposition parties, the Rome-based court declared that banning single people from adopting internationally was unconstitutional. The case stemmed from a 2019 request by a single woman in Florence, which was initially denied under a 1983 law but later referred to the Constitutional Court for review. The court found that the law unfairly restricted parental rights, stating that: Becoming a parent is a fundamental right linked to personal self-determination. Single individuals can provide a stable and nurturing environment for abandoned children. Judges must evaluate each adoption case based on the individual’s emotional and financial suitability. Political and Social ...

 Cross River PDP Reinstates Chairman Venatius Ikem The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Cross River State has reinstated its chairman, Venatius Ikem, months after his suspension over allegations of misconduct, financial mismanagement, and the party’s poor performance in the 2024 local government elections. Ikem Declares Vindication, Pledges Party Revival Speaking at the PDP Secretariat in Calabar, Ikem announced that he had been “exonerated and acquitted” of all allegations. He assured party members that his return would restore PDP’s influence in the state and beyond. "The party may have fallen and stumbled, but we will rise to take our rightful place in Cross River and Nigeria," he said. Calls for Unity and Reconciliation Expressing gratitude for the warm reception, Ikem urged members to forgive past grievances and work toward party unity. "The past four months were difficult, but we must move forward. I hold no grudges and will engage all stakeholders to rebuild our ...

  The Federal High Court in Lokoja has granted an interim injunction, restraining the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from receiving petitions aimed at recalling Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. This development comes as the push to recall the suspended senator gained momentum, with more groups in Kogi Central backing the process. However, a group of Ebira indigenes disputed claims that the recall process was being influenced by Akpoti-Uduaghan's political opponents. The court's order, issued on Thursday, also prohibits INEC staff and agents from accepting or acting on petitions containing fictitious signatures from Kogi Central Senatorial District. Additionally, the court has halted any referendum pending the determination of the motion on notice. The application for the interim injunction was supported by an affidavit of extreme urgency and was moved by Smart Nwachimere, Esq. of West-Idahosa, SAN & Co. The case has been adjourned to May 6, 2025, for furth...

The Federal Government has announced that only full-time Higher National Diploma (HND) graduates are eligible for mobilization into the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC). This development marks a significant breakthrough for full-time HND graduates who were previously excluded from the NYSC program. According to the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Olatunji Alausa, the resolution was reached after a dialogue with the Director-General of NYSC. The Minister emphasized that NYSC mobilization is strictly for those who completed a full-time HND program, while part-time HND graduates remain ineligible. To facilitate a seamless mobilization process, the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) has been directed to expedite the collation of data for eligible HND graduates. A circular has been sent to all Rectors of Polytechnics, instructing them to upload the necessary graduate data onto the newly created HND admission portal. The Minister urged all eligible full-time HND graduates to t...

  Suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has made shocking allegations against Senate President Godswill Akpabio, accusing him of making suggestive comments about her waist movements and squeezing her hands inappropriately. In an interview with the BBC, Akpoti-Uduaghan recounted two instances where Akpabio allegedly made sexist remarks. The first incident occurred when she forgot to wear her wedding ring to work, and Akpabio commented, "Oh Natasha, you are not wearing your ring... is this an invitation to treat?" The second incident involved Akpabio saying, "Natasha, your husband is really enjoying. It looks like you'd be able to make good movements with your waist." Akpoti-Uduaghan expressed her discomfort with Akpabio's behavior, stating that women understand the implications of such suggestive comments and actions. She also noted that other senators present during these incidents laughed, indicating a broader cultural issue. This is not the first time ...

 Sudan army says it has control of presidential palace in Khartoum The Sudanese army seized full control of the presidential palace in downtown Khartoum on Friday, it said in a statement, in what would be a major gain in a two-year-old conflict with a rival armed group that has threatened to partition the country, Reuters reported. The army had long been on the back foot but has recently made gains and has retaken territory from the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in the centre of the country. The RSF has consolidated control in the west, hardening battle lines and moving Sudan towards de facto partition. The RSF is setting up a parallel government in areas it controls, although that is not expected to secure widespread international recognition. The RSF said on Friday, hours after the army statement, that it remained in the vicinity of the palace, and that it had launched an attack that had killed dozens of army soldiers inside. Army sources said the fighters were about 40...