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𝗧𝗶𝗻𝘂𝗯𝘂 𝗺𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗻𝘀 𝗲𝘅-𝗢𝗴𝘂𝗻 𝗙𝗶𝗿𝘀𝘁 𝗟𝗮𝗱𝘆, 𝗵𝗮𝗶𝗹𝘀 𝗵𝘂𝗺𝗮𝗻𝗶𝘁𝗮𝗿𝗶𝗮𝗻 𝗹𝗲𝗴𝗮𝗰𝘆

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed profound condolences to the Government and people of Ogun State, as well as the Onabanjo family, following the death of Chief Lucia Onabanjo, the wife of the state’s first civilian governor and a revered matriarch.

Chief Lucia Onabowale Onabanjo, born in 1925, passed away peacefully on Monday, January 12, 2026, at the remarkable age of 101. She was the spouse of Chief Victor Olabisi Onabanjo, who served as Ogun State’s governor from 1979 to 1983 during Nigeria’s Second Republic. The family announced her passing in a statement signed by her daughter, Olubukunola Onabanjo, describing her as a beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother who was “called to glory” with gratitude to Almighty God.

In an official statement released on Tuesday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu described the late Chief Onabanjo as a woman whose life exemplified compassion, service, and deep commitment to humanity. He highlighted the outpouring of tributes from her community, state, and nation as evidence of her lasting impact.

“Lucia Onabanjo’s strong support for her husband when he served as Ogun State Governor for four years, 1979–1983, was commendable, and her keen interest in issues of children and empowerment of women was exemplary,” President Tinubu said.

The President praised her charitable works and dedication to the poor and vulnerable, noting that her legacy of kindness and charity would continue to resonate. He urged the Ogun State Government and family members to immortalize her contributions by promoting her values of love and support for those in need.

“I do not doubt that her legacy of charity and kindness will continue to resonate,” Tinubu added. “I urge the Ogun State Government and family members to immortalise her by projecting her legacy of love for the poor and vulnerable.”

He concluded with prayers for divine comfort: “I pray that the Almighty God will receive Lucia Onabanjo’s soul, and continue to strengthen her family.”

Chief Lucia Onabanjo lived a life marked by modesty, strong family values, and advocacy for parental responsibility and discipline. Her husband’s tenure as governor and his journalistic career, famous for his column “Ayekooto” placed the family at the forefront of Ogun State’s early democratic history.

Burial arrangements are yet to be announced by the family. The passing of this centenarian matriarch has drawn widespread sympathy, reflecting her enduring influence on generations in Ogun State and beyond.

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𝗔𝗱𝗲𝗸𝘂𝗻𝗹𝗲 𝗚𝗼𝗹𝗱, 𝗦𝗶𝗺𝗶 𝗰𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗯𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝘀𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗵 𝘄𝗲𝗱𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮𝗻𝗻𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗮𝗿𝘆

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene

Nigerian music power couple Adekunle Gold and Simi are celebrating a beautiful milestone: their seventh wedding anniversary. The adored pair, known for their genuine love story and harmonious blend of music and family life, marked the occasion with heartfelt tributes shared on social media on January 13, 2026.

The couple tied the knot in a private ceremony in 2019 and have since become one of Nigeria’s most admired celebrity duos, often inspiring fans with their playful banter, mutual support, and enduring affection. They welcomed their first child, a daughter named Adejare (Deja), in 2020, and recently expanded their family with the arrival of twins earlier this month, adding even more joy to their journey together.

In his anniversary post, Adekunle Gold reflected warmly on their seven years of marriage, describing Simi as his best friend and the easiest, most beautiful decision of his life. He wrote: “Seven years ago, I married my best friend. And somehow, every year since then has been gentler than the last… Through it all, loving you has been the easiest, most beautiful decision of my life. Seven years in and my heart still knows where it belongs. I love you Simi.”

Simi, in her touching tribute, expressed deep gratitude for her husband’s character and unwavering support. She thanked him for being a rare “good man,” for caring for her, and for being worth every sacrifice as a wife and mother. She added: “Thank you for not letting me have to fight to be seen and loved.. I love you. Husband of my youth. Ká pé fún wa lọ́rùkọ Jesu” (a Yoruba prayer wishing longevity in their union under God’s name).

The posts quickly drew an outpouring of love from fans, fellow celebrities, and content creators, with congratulations flooding the comments sections alongside heart emojis, prayers, and well-wishes for continued happiness and peace.

This milestone comes shortly after the couple welcomed their twins, making 2026 an especially blessed year for the Kosoko family. Adekunle Gold and Simi continue to exemplify lasting love in the spotlight, proving that real partnership, laughter, and growth can thrive even amid busy careers and parenthood.

Happy 7th anniversary to one of Naija’s favorite couples, here’s to many more years of music, magic, and unbreakable love! 💍❤️

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Youth Advocate Mama Pee Slams Government, Police Over Remand of 52 Edo Protesters

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By Prosper Mene

Prominent youth advocate and activist Precious Oruche, popularly known as Mama Pee, has strongly condemned the Edo State Government and the Nigeria Police Force for the remand of 52 protesters, including students from Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma, following a demonstration against rising insecurity.

The protesters were remanded at the Ubiaja Correctional Centre on Monday, January 12, 2026, by the Edo State High Court in Benin City. They face charges including malicious damage and armed robbery, stemming from a protest in Ekpoma that began peacefully but was allegedly hijacked by hoodlums, leading to vandalism, looting, and destruction of property, including the palace of the Onojie of Ekpoma.

In appearances on News Central TV and other platforms on January 13, 2026, Mama Pee lambasted authorities for prioritizing the arrest and detention of demonstrators over tackling the root cause: rampant kidnappings and insecurity plaguing Edo State.

She stated, “Shame on the commissioner of police. He couldn’t arrest kidnappers, but he sent students to prison. People protested because they’re tired of living in fear, and now they’re behind bars.”

Mama Pee further emphasized the urgency of the situation, noting, “Edo State’s situation really needs urgent attention. It’s sad that people can no longer sleep peacefully at night. The government needs to do the needful.”

The protest erupted over the weekend in response to escalating kidnappings and killings in Ekpoma and surrounding areas in Edo Central Senatorial District. Demonstrators, many of them AAU students and residents, marched with placards demanding government action to restore safety.

However, police intervened, claiming the demonstration turned violent. Reports indicate arrests occurred during night raids and early morning operations, with some suspects claiming they were taken from their homes or hostels without participating in the protest. Emotional scenes unfolded at the court as relatives wept and attempted to pass food and essentials to the detained youths.

The development has drawn widespread criticism. The Edo chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) described the arrests as oppressive and an abuse of power, demanding the immediate and unconditional release of the 52 individuals. The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) condemned the action, urging authorities to guarantee the detainees’ safety and address insecurity rather than criminalize protesters.

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan also weighed in, calling the arrests a suppression of youth voices and democratic expression, while civil rights group Citizens’ Gavel highlighted potential breaches of constitutional rights to peaceful assembly and fair process.

Police have maintained that the protest was hijacked, leading to criminal acts, and investigations continue.

As of January 13, 2026, the case stands adjourned to February 26, 2026, for further hearing, leaving the 52 remanded individuals in custody amid growing calls for their release and a renewed focus on combating insecurity in Edo State.

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Lagos Man Acquitted of Child Defilement Charge After Seven Years in Detention

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By Prosper Mene

A Lagos State High Court has acquitted a man who spent seven years in custody on charges of child molestation (defilement), citing insufficient evidence to sustain the prosecution’s case.

The defendant, whose identity has been withheld pending further details from court records, was arrested in 2019 following allegations of sexually assaulting a minor. He had been held in pre-trial detention at the Kirikiri Correctional Centre since then, as the case faced multiple adjournments amid Nigeria’s backlog of judicial matters.

Delivering the judgment on Tuesday, Justice [Name Withheld for Privacy] ruled that the prosecution failed to prove the charges beyond reasonable doubt. Key testimonies from witnesses were deemed inconsistent, and medical evidence presented did not conclusively link the defendant to the alleged offence.

 

“The burden of proof lies with the state, and where there are material contradictions in the evidence, the accused is entitled to the benefit of doubt,” the judge stated.

Reacting to the acquittal, the defendant’s counsel expressed relief, describing the seven-year wait for justice as “a harrowing ordeal that highlights systemic delays in the criminal justice system.” He called for reforms to prevent prolonged pre-trial detention, noting that many awaiting-trial inmates languish for years without resolution.

Human rights advocates have welcomed the verdict, pointing to it as a reminder of the risks of wrongful accusations in sexual offence cases, which carry severe social stigma even upon acquittal.

The Lagos State Ministry of Justice has not indicated whether it will appeal the ruling. The acquitted man was released from custody immediately after the judgment.

This case adds to growing concerns over prolonged detention in Nigeria, where thousands remain in prisons awaiting trial for extended periods.

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FCT Police Launch Probe into Death of Woman Found on Kubwa Expressway

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By Prosper Mene

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has commenced a discreet investigation into the mysterious death of a woman whose body was discovered along the Kubwa Expressway in Abuja on Tuesday.

According to police sources, the deceased was found lifeless by the roadside, with her handbag containing an identity card and other personal belongings recovered a few metres away. Documents retrieved from the bag suggest she may have been a staff member of the FCT High Court, though her identity has not been officially released pending notification of next-of-kin.

In a statement, FCT Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, confirmed the incident: “The FCT Police Command is aware of this sad incident. Discreet investigations are ongoing to unravel the facts and circumstances surrounding the incident. More information will be provided in due course as investigations progress.”

The discovery comes amid heightened concerns over security in the nation’s capital, following a similar recent case involving the death of a nurse, Chinemerem Chuwumeziem, at the Federal Medical Centre in Jabi. Some reports have linked both incidents to suspected activities of “one-chance” robbery gangs – criminals who pose as commercial transporters to rob, assault, and sometimes dispose of victims along highways.

Authorities have urged residents to remain vigilant when boarding public transport and to report suspicious activities to the nearest police station. The police have assured the public of increased patrols in vulnerable areas to curb such crimes.

The body has been deposited at a morgue for autopsy to determine the exact cause of death. Further updates are expected as the investigation unfolds.

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Ekiti Governor Oyebanji Hails Historic Appointment of Dr. Olugbemisola Odusote as First Female DG of Nigerian Law School

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By Prosper Mene

Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, has warmly congratulated Dr. Olugbemisola Titilayo Odusote on her groundbreaking appointment as the Director-General of the Nigerian Law School by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media, Yinka Oyebode, Governor Oyebanji described the appointment as a well-deserved recognition of Dr. Odusote’s excellence, noting that she is an Ado-Ekiti-born distinguished lawyer, scholar, and administrator. He highlighted that her elevation marks her as the first woman to head the prestigious institution since its establishment in 1962.

The governor expressed profound gratitude to President Tinubu for deeming Dr. Odusote worthy of the role, calling it further evidence of the President’s commitment to appointing talented and competent individuals to strategic positions.

Governor Oyebanji voiced absolute confidence in Dr. Odusote’s ability to excel in the new position, based on her proven track record in previous roles. He urged her to deploy her wealth of experience and expertise, particularly during this critical period for legal education in Nigeria.

He also encouraged the new DG to continue embodying the core Ekiti values of integrity, dedication, loyalty, courage, and excellence that have defined her career. The governor assured her of the full support of the Ekiti State government and its people.

Dr. Odusote, currently the Deputy Director-General and Head of the Lagos Campus, will assume office on January 10, 2026, succeeding Professor Isa Hayatu Chiroma.

Her appointment has been widely celebrated as a milestone for gender inclusion in Nigeria’s legal profession, with similar commendations from groups like the Nigerian Bar Association Women Forum.

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Toyin Abraham’s ‘Oversabi Aunty’ Becomes Fourth Highest-Grossing Nollywood Film of All Time

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By Prosper Mene

Nollywood superstar Toyin Abraham has once again proven her box office prowess as her latest movie, Oversabi Aunty, rises to become the fourth highest-grossing Nigerian film ever in West African cinemas.

Distributed by FilmOne Entertainment, the comedy-drama has amassed an impressive ₦711.5 million in just 18 days since its theatrical release on December 19, 2025. This milestone displaces previous heavyweights like Funke Akindele’s Battle on Buka Street (₦668 million) and Omo Ghetto: The Saga (₦630 million), cementing Abraham’s status as one of Nollywood’s most bankable talents.

FilmOne celebrated the achievement on social media, stating: “In just 18 days, Oversabi Aunty grossed ₦711.5M, making it the 4th Highest Nollywood Film of all time in West Africa. Thank you to everyone for the love and support so far.”

The film follows Toun (played by Abraham), a zealous church usher whose well-intentioned but overbearing efforts to “fix” everyone’s problems lead to hilarious chaos, family drama, and vital life lessons. The story culminates in a chaotic wedding introduction that forces her to confront the consequences of her interference.

Boasting a star-studded cast including Mike Ezuruonye, Efe Irele, Jemima Osunde, Enioluwa Adeoluwa, Queen Nwokoye, Tana Adelana, and Ngozi Ezeonu, Oversabi Aunty has resonated deeply with audiences for its relatable portrayal of Nigerian family dynamics, religious fervor, and the classic “oversabi” stereotype.

Earlier milestones included crossing ₦382 million in 11 days and a strong opening weekend of over ₦100 million, marking it as one of 2025’s biggest festive season hits despite stiff competition.

Toyin Abraham, who both directed and produced the film, has a track record of commercial successes, including Alakada: Bad and Boujee (previously ranked fifth all-time) and titles like Malaika and Ijakumo. Fans and industry watchers praise her ability to blend humor, cultural commentary, and emotional depth.

Oversabi Aunty continues to screen in cinemas nationwide. With its rapid climb, analysts predict it could challenge even higher spots on the all-time list as the holiday season momentum persists.

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Funke Akindele’s ‘Behind The Scenes’ Surpasses ₦1.77 Billion at Nigerian Box Office, Extending Record-Breaking Run

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By Prosper Mene

Nollywood powerhouse Funke Akindele has once again solidified her position as the undisputed “Queen of the Box Office” with her latest film, Behind The Scenes, which has now grossed an impressive ₦1.77 billion in domestic earnings.

Released on December 12, 2025, the drama , which explores the pressures of “black tax,” family obligations, and the hidden struggles behind succes, has continued its phenomenal theatrical run into the new year. The film, distributed by FilmOne Entertainment, is now expanding internationally, with screenings ongoing in the UK and Ireland, and a US premiere set for January 9, 2026, followed by Canada on January 16.

Behind The Scenes stars Scarlet Gomez in the lead role as Aderonke, a successful entrepreneur grappling with endless family demands. The ensemble cast includes Funke Akindele (in a supporting role as the entitled sister Adetutu), Iyabo Ojo, Destiny Etiko, Tobi Bakare, Uche Montana, Uzor Arukwe, Ini Dima-Okojie, Mr Macaroni (Adebowale Adebowale), Ibrahim Chatta, and Big Brother Naija stars Handi and Wanni Danbaki, among others. Co-directed by Akindele and Tunde Olaoye, the movie has resonated deeply with audiences for its relatable portrayal of cultural expectations and personal boundaries.

This latest milestone further cements Akindele’s unparalleled dominance in Nollywood. She remains the only director to have multiple films cross the ₦1 billion threshold, with Behind The Scenes marking her third consecutive billion-naira blockbuster. Previous hits like A Tribe Called Judah and Everybody Loves Jenifa (the current all-time highest-grossing Nollywood film at over ₦1.8 billion) have built her legacy as the industry’s most bankable filmmaker.

Reacting to the ongoing success, Akindele expressed gratitude to her fans: “Without God and you, my amazing supporters, I am nobody. Thank you for showing up and making this possible.”

As Behind The Scenes continues to draw crowds in cinemas, it not only highlights Nollywood’s growing commercial strength but also shows Akindele’s masterful blend of relatable storytelling, star power, and strategic marketing. The film is set to challenge even more records in the coming weeks.

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DJ Cuppy Announces Temporary Social Media Break for ‘Time with God’ Ahead of 21-Day Biblical Fast

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By Prosper Mene

Popular Nigerian disc jockey and philanthropist, Florence Ifeoluwa Otedola, better known as DJ Cuppy, has revealed plans to step away from social media to focus on spiritual renewal.

The billionaire heiress and daughter of business mogul Femi Otedola shared the news with her fans, explaining that she needs “time with God” as she embarks on a 21-day biblical fast.

In a heartfelt message, DJ Cuppy emphasized the importance of personal reflection and spiritual growth. “I need time for myself and time being hidden with God,” she stated, adding that the decision follows weeks of introspection where she realized the fast was needed “more than ever.”

The 33-year-old entertainer, who has been increasingly open about her faith journey in recent years, reassured followers that the break is temporary. She acknowledged her regular online presence, noting that the hiatus might seem unusual but is necessary for her to “reset and reconnect” while processing personal matters privately.

DJ Cuppy’s spiritual path has been a prominent theme in her public life. Following her baptism in 2024, where she dedicated her life to God, she has frequently shared reflections on faith, purpose, and intention. This social media pause aligns with her ongoing emphasis on prioritizing spiritual well-being amid a busy career in music, philanthropy, and global advocacy.

Fans have responded with support, praising her for prioritizing self-care and faith. The DJ is expected to return to social platforms after completing her fast.

This announcement comes as DJ Cuppy continues to balance her high-profile lifestyle with deeper personal and spiritual commitments.

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I’ve No Other Husband But George Akume – SGF’s Wife Reaffirms Marriage At New Year Mass

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By Prosper Mene

Chief (Mrs.) Regina Akume, wife of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, has publicly reaffirmed her commitment to their marriage, declaring, “I’ve no other husband but George Akume.”

The statement was made during a New Year Thanksgiving Mass on January 1, 2026, amid recent reports of the SGF’s marriage to Queen Zaynab Ngohemba, a former wife of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi.

Mrs. Akume, who represents Gboko/Tarka Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, spoke emotionally at the church service, emphasising the enduring nature of their union. Sources close to the family described her remarks as a reaffirmation of her position as the SGF’s primary spouse, despite the polygamous development.

The SGF’s reported union with Queen Zaynab became public in late December 2025, with family members welcoming her into the Akume Dajoh clan. While Senator Akume has described the marriage as a personal matter with no impact on his public duties, Mrs. Regina Akume’s public declaration underscores her continued role in the family.

The couple, married for decades, have children together and have been prominent figures in Benue State and national politics. The New Year Mass, attended by family and supporters, provided the platform for Mrs. Akume to address lingering speculations.

Neither the SGF’s office nor Mrs. Akume has issued an official statement beyond her remarks at the Mass.

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