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Protest at Women Affairs Ministry Deemed Politically Motivated by NANS

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By Prosper Mene 

‎The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has strongly condemned the recent protest staged by staff of the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs, labeling it as politically motivated and an attempt to undermine the administration of Minister Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim.

‎The demonstration, which took place on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, at the ministry’s headquarters in Abuja’s Central Area, saw aggrieved workers blocking the gates, chanting slogans, and demanding the minister’s removal.

‎Protesters accused the ministry of neglecting staff welfare, including failure to provide welfare packages, professional training, and reimbursement for official trips dating back to January 2023.

‎In a viral video circulating on social media, one staff member lamented the unpaid allowances, while another, identified as Alake Success, criticized the minister’s inaccessibility and her appointment of over 25 special assistants, calling for her reassignment to another ministry.

‎A female protester, Anne Ojubele, highlighted the lack of working tools and resources, stating that the staff had endured the issues for over a year without resolution. The action escalated to the point where the minister was reportedly locked out of her office, adding to a series of recent protests across various Nigerian ministries, including those at the Finance Ministry involving the Trade Union Congress (TUC) and pensioners.

‎However, in a swift response, NANS, a prominent student body representing Nigerian tertiary institutions, dismissed the protest as orchestrated for political gain rather than genuine welfare concerns. According to a statement issued by NANS, the agitation is being fueled by elements opposed to the minister’s reforms and her efforts to reposition the ministry for better service delivery to women and vulnerable groups.

‎The organization urged the protesters to seek internal dialogue instead of public confrontation, emphasizing that such actions could distract from the ministry’s core mandate.”NANS views this protest as nothing but a politically motivated witch-hunt against a diligent public servant who has been working tirelessly to advance women’s rights in Nigeria,” the statement read.

‎It further called on the federal government to investigate any underlying political machinations and ensure that legitimate staff grievances are addressed through proper channels.

‎Minister Sulaiman-Ibrahim, who assumed office in October 2024 following the dismissal of her predecessor, Barrister Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye, has yet to issue an official response to the allegations as of Friday. Sources within the ministry indicate that attempts to engage the minister have been ongoing, but the protesters’ demands for her ouster have complicated matters.

‎Civil society groups have called for transparency and accountability, while labor unions monitor the situation closely.

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Hilda Baci’s Giant Jollof Pot Draws 20,000 to Lagos for Record-Breaking Feast ‎ ‎

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By Prosper Mene

‎Celebrity chef Hilda Baci has kicked off her audacious bid to cook the world’s largest pot of Nigerian jollof rice, drawing an unprecedented crowd of over 20,000 eager food lovers to the Eko Hotels and Suites in Lagos.

‎The free event, termed the “Gino Jollof Festival,” transformed the venue into a vibrant hub of culture, music, and mouthwatering aromas, as Baci and her team fired up massive burners beneath a colossal cooking pot.

‎The Guinness World Record (GWR) holder, who first captured global attention in May 2023 with her grueling 100-hour cooking marathon, pro bemised an “amazing and hygienic” experience that would elevate Nigeria’s beloved jollof rice to new heights. “In just a few hours, this same pot will be home to thousands of servings of Nigerian jollof history in the making,” Baci declared on social media earlier today, sharing a humorous video of herself scrubbing the interior of the giant vessel to assure fans of top-notch cleanliness standards.

‎The festival, organized in partnership with the seasoning brand Gino, was originally slated for Muri Okunola Park but was swiftly relocated to Eko Hotels’ expansive Car Park B to accommodate the overwhelming demand. More than 20,000 people registered for the event, forcing organizers to adapt for safety and comfort. “Your safety and comfort is so important to us,” Baci explained, highlighting that the original venue could only hold about 3,000 to 3,500 attendees far short of the massive turnout.

‎The ambitious cook-off aims to shatter records by preparing a single pot using a staggering 250 bags of rice, alongside heaps of peppers, tomatoes, onions, and Gino seasonings. Before the flames came to life, the event kicked off with a blessing from Pastor Bolaji Idowu of Harvesters International Christian Centre, who offered prayers for Baci’s success.

‎Guinness World Records themselves sent well-wishes, tweeting “Best of luck” to the chef as she embarked on this flavorful quest.The atmosphere at Eko Hotels buzzed with excitement, featuring live entertainment, food exhibitions, cultural showcases, and interactive zones celebrating jollof as a symbol of Nigerian identity and resilience.

‎Celebrities and influencers, including Enioluwa Adeoluwa, Tomike Adeoye, Folagade Banks, and Veekee James, joined the throng of Gen Zers, millennials, and dedicated food enthusiasts, turning the gathering into a star-studded one.

‎Baci’s latest endeavor builds on her legacy, positioning Nigerian cuisine on the international stage once more.

‎While the pot simmers and the crowd cheers, Nigerians await this giant feast’s success in securing another spot in the record books.

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‎A Smile That Transforms: Damilola’s Dental Outreach Success

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By Prosper Mene

‎On August 30, 2025, the bustling Prince Bus Stop in Ikotun, Ijegun Road, came alive with a mission of care as Damilola anchored a groundbreaking Dental Outreach Program.

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Organized under the banner of Unique Smile Mobile Dental Services, the event, themed “Proper Oral Hygiene,” brought free dental care to a community in need, leaving a lasting impact.Damilola, dressed in a distinctive black-and-white checkered uniform, led with grace and determination, overseeing tooth extractions for three individuals, scaling and polishing for 15, and tooth replacements for two. Every participant left with toothpaste, toothbrushes, dental floss, and tongue cleaners, tools to sustain their newfound oral health.

‎The air buzzed with activity as volunteers worked tirelessly, adults and children, like the young boy receiving treatment sat patiently, their smiles growing brighter.

‎This outreach was more than a service,it was a passion project. Damilola shared her vision in a heartfelt interview, emphasizing her desire to assist her immediate community by educating people on dental care’s importance. “I want to resurrect consciousness about oral health, especially among low- and middle-class families,” she said, highlighting her modest yet powerful means to make a difference.

‎Supported by partners like GreatGod Community, The Smile HQ Dental Clinic, and others, the event showcased a collective effort.

‎Damilola expressed deep gratitude for the support, noting, “Your contribution significantly impacted lives, enabling us to deliver quality care and promote awareness. Thank you for trusting in our mission to create a healthier community.”As the day ended, the sense of hope lingered. Damilola’s initiative not only treated teeth but also planted seeds of awareness, promising a future where every smile counts.

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Harris Calls Biden’s Reelection Push ‘Reckless’ in New Memoir ‎

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‎By Prosper Mene 

‎Former Vice President Kamala Harris has sharply criticized President Joe Biden’s decision to run for reelection in 2024, calling it “reckless” in an excerpt from her upcoming memoir, 107 Days, published in The Atlantic.

‎The book which is set for release on September 23, reflects on the chaotic end of the Biden-Harris administration and Harris’s short-lived presidential campaign.

‎Harris writes that Democrats were wrong to leave the decision to Biden and First Lady Jill Biden alone, saying, “It was recklessness to act like it was just their call.”

‎She argues the stakes were too high for it to be a personal choice. Biden, then 81, dropped out in July 2024 after a weak debate performance, endorsing Harris, who lost to Donald Trump in the election.

‎Harris defends Biden’s ability to lead, blaming his stumbles on tiredness, not incapacity. “Joe got tired, not incapable,” she writes, denying any cover-up of his health.

‎She also describes tensions with Biden’s team, who she says undermined her and saw her success as a threat to Biden. Harris felt unable to push Biden to step aside, fearing it would look like “disloyalty.”The memoir comes as Harris, who won’t run for California governor in 2026, plans a 15-city book tour.

‎Her comments are currently stirring debate about the Democratic Party’s 2024 struggles across the United States.

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Ezekwesili Slams Senate, Demands Immediate Recall of Suspended Senator Natasha ‎ ‎

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene 

‎In an open memo addressed to Senate President Godswill Akpabio, fellow senators, the judiciary, and Nigerian citizens, former Minister of Education Obiageli “Oby” Ezekwesili has called for the urgent recall of suspended Kogi Central Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, describing the Senate’s actions as a blatant “misappropriation of public office powers” and a direct assault on Nigeria’s democracy.

‎Ezekwesili, founder of the School of Politics, Policy and Governance (SPPG), issued the memo on Wednesday, marking exactly six months since Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension on March 6, 2025.

‎The PDP lawmaker was barred from the Senate following her public allegation of sexual harassment against Akpabio during a visit to his home in Akwa Ibom State. The controversy escalated from a dispute over her seating arrangement in the Senate chamber, which she claimed was an attempt to undermine her role.

‎In her letter, titled “A Memo to the Nigerian Senate, Judiciary and Fellow Citizens,” Ezekwesili accused the Senate of acting as both “accuser and judge,” prejudging the harassment claim before any proper investigation. She highlighted how the Senate Ethics Committee chairman dismissed Akpoti-Uduaghan’s petition as “dead on arrival,” declaring that Akpabio “could not have committed sexual harassment.” This, she argued, exposed a “system designed to protect power rather than pursue truth.”

‎The former minister condemned the Senate’s recent decision to extend Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension indefinitely, despite a July 4, 2025, Federal High Court ruling by Justice Binta Nyako that declared the initial six-month ban “excessive” and unconstitutional, ordering her immediate recall.

‎Akpabio has since appealed the judgment at the Court of Appeal, arguing that the matter is an internal legislative affair immune from judicial interference under Section 251 of the 1999 Constitution and the Legislative Houses (Powers and Privileges) Act. ‎

‎”This is a constitutional crisis,” Ezekwesili wrote, urging the Senate to “rescind your unconstitutional decision immediately” and recall the senator without delay. She warned that “democracy dies when laws become weapons and lawmakers become serial lawbreakers,” emphasizing that Akpabio and the 107 other senators are “not more powerful than Nigeria’s people.” ‎

‎She also called on the Chief Justice of Nigeria and the National Judicial Council to intervene swiftly, noting that “judicial inconsistencies have emboldened the legislature to disregard the law” and that the judiciary’s credibility is at stake.

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‎ADC Slams Senate Leadership, Demands Immediate Reinstatement of Suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene 

‎The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has issued a scathing rebuke against Senate President Godswill Akpabio and the Nigerian Senate, demanding the immediate reinstatement of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, whose six-month suspension expired on September 6, 2025.

‎In a strongly worded statement released on Wednesday, the opposition party described the ongoing obstruction of her return as “malicious,” “illegal,” and a “flagrant affront” to Nigeria’s democratic principles.

‎The suspension of Akpoti-Uduaghan, the senator representing Kogi Central, came from allegations of “unruly and disruptive” behavior in the Senate chamber earlier this year, including a heated dispute over seating arrangements on February 20, 2025.

‎The lawmaker, one of only four women in the 109-member Senate, was also at the center of controversy after accusing Akpabio of sexual harassment, a claim that the Senate leadership denied and used as part of the justification for her disciplinary action.

‎During her suspension, which began on March 6, 2025, Akpoti-Uduaghan was stripped of her salary and access to her office, and legislative aides, measures the ADC labeled as “institutional mugging” rather than legitimate discipline.

‎The party emphasized that the suspension was imposed by the Senate without judicial oversight, and with its fixed term now lapsed, any further barriers to her resumption constitute an abuse of power.”The African Democratic Congress observes with deep concern the continued obstruction of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan from resuming her seat in the Nigerian Senate after the completion of her six-month suspension,” read the statement signed by ADC National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi.

‎ “We consider this development not only malicious but also deeply injurious to the spirit of our constitutional democracy, especially the right to dissent.

The ADC warned that the Senate’s actions reflect an “anti-democratic temper” under the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC)-led government, aimed at silencing opposition and dissenting voices.

Highlighting the low representation of women in Nigerian politics—only 2.7% in the Senate, one of the worst rates in Africa, the party positioned Akpoti-Uduaghan’s case as a critical test for women’s political participation. “The ADC, therefore, stands firmly in defense of democratic principles and women’s political participation. We therefore demand that Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan be allowed to resume her duties immediately,” Abdullahi added.

 

As of Wednesday, Akpoti-Uduaghan remains barred from legislative activities, prompting widespread criticism from opposition parties, women’s rights advocates, and constituents in Kogi State.

 

 

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‎Wike Appoints Nancy Sabanti Nathan as Acting Head of Service of FCTA

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By Prosper Mene 

‎In a bid to ensure continuity in the administration of Nigeria’s capital city, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has approved the appointment of Mrs Nancy Sabanti Nathan as the Acting Head of Service of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA).

‎The announcement, made public on Tuesday, comes just over a week after the sudden passing of the previous Head of Service, Mrs. Grace Adayilo, leaving a critical leadership vacuum in the FCT’s civil service.

‎The appointment was disclosed in a statement issued by Lere Olayinka, Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media to the FCT Minister.

‎Olayinka emphasized that Nathan’s role is in an acting capacity, pending the selection and confirmation of a substantive Head of Service. “The appointment takes immediate effect,” the statement read, pointing the urgency to maintain seamless operations in the FCTA, which oversees the governance, infrastructure, and public services in Abuja and surrounding areas.

‎Mrs. Adayilo, who served as the FCTA’s Head of Service until her death on September 1, 2025, was a veteran administrator whose contributions to the territory’s development were widely acknowledged.

‎Her untimely demise has prompted this interim leadership transition to avoid any disruptions in policy implementation and administrative functions.

‎Prior to her elevation, Mrs. Nancy Sabanti Nathan, mni (Member of the National Institute), held the position of Permanent Secretary in the FCTA’s Youth Development Secretariat. She brings a wealth of experience to the role, having previously served as Director of Finance and Administration in the office of the FCT Minister.

‎Nathan’s career journey highlights her expertise in financial management, youth empowerment programs, and administrative oversight, qualities deemed essential for steering the FCTA through this transitional period.

‎The FCTA, as the administrative arm of the Federal Capital Territory, plays a pivotal role in urban planning, security, education, health, and economic development for over 3 million residents in Abuja.

‎ Nathan’s interim leadership is expected to focus on sustaining ongoing initiatives, including Wike’s ambitious infrastructure projects and efforts to enhance youth engagement in the capital.

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‎National Assembly Bars Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan from Resuming Duties Despite Suspension’s Expiration

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene 

‎The National Assembly (NASS) has formally rejected Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s bid to return to her legislative role, citing an ongoing appeal at the Court of Appeal as the primary reason.

‎ The Kogi Central representative, suspended for six months earlier this year amid allegations of misconduct, had notified NASS of her intention to resume on September 4, 2025, claiming the penalty period had lapsed.

‎The decision, outlined in a letter dated September 4, 2025, from Acting Clerk to the National Assembly, Dr. Yahaya Danzaria, shows the delicate balance between parliamentary autonomy and judicial oversight. Danzaria acknowledged receipt of Akpoti-Uduaghan’s notification but emphasized that the matter remains “sub judice,” meaning it is under active judicial consideration. “Until the judicial process is concluded and the Senate formally reviews the suspension in light of the court’s pronouncement, no administrative action can be taken by this office to facilitate your resumption,” the letter stated.

‎Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s troubles began in March 2025, when the Senate imposed a six-month suspension on her following a heated dispute over seating arrangements during a plenary session. The altercation reportedly escalated into accusations of gross misconduct and a violation of Senate rules. The senator, one of only four female senators in the 109-member upper chamber, has linked the suspension to a prior petition she filed accusing Senate President Godswill Akpabio of sexual harassment a claim Akpabio has vehemently denied.

‎The suspension, effective from March 6, 2025, barred her from participating in legislative activities and accessing Senate facilities. In July 2025, Akpoti-Uduaghan attempted an early return, citing a Federal High Court ruling by Justice Binta Nyako that described the suspension as “excessive and unconstitutional” and ordered her recall. However, security personnel denied her entry to the National Assembly complex, forcing her to walk in on foot accompanied by activists like Aisha Yesufu.

‎The Senate dismissed the ruling as advisory rather than binding, arguing that courts cannot interfere in internal parliamentary procedures.

‎Subsequently, the Federal High Court found Akpoti-Uduaghan guilty of contempt for a social media post that allegedly violated a court order, fining her N5 million and requiring a public apology. Dissatisfied with these developments, she appealed to the Court of Appeal in Abuja, where the case remains pending.

‎On August 28, 2025, Akpoti-Uduaghan wrote to Clerk Kamoru Ogunlana, asserting that September 4 marked the end of her suspension and requesting confirmation of arrangements for her return. She highlighted the need to catch up on committee assignments, review pending legislation, and address constituency matters accumulated during her absence. NASS’s response, however, was unequivocal. While confirming the suspension’s timeline, Danzaria noted that the appellate process halts any immediate action. The letter assured the senator that she would be notified of the Senate’s final decision once the Court of Appeal rules.

‎This stance has drawn criticism from supporters who view it as an extension of political vendetta, particularly given Akpoti-Uduaghan’s vocal advocacy for gender equity and her status as a rare female voice in the male-dominated Senate.

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Africa Must Lead Its Own Security, Says UN’s Amina Mohammed

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By Prosper Mene 

‎Amina Mohammed, UN Deputy Secretary-General, urged African leaders to take charge of the continent’s security at the first African Chiefs of Defence Forum in Abuja. She called the event a historic step toward uniting African nations to tackle growing threats like terrorism, cyberattacks, and climate-related crises.

‎Mohammed, a former Nigerian minister, highlighted Africa’s serious challenges, noting it has the highest number of terrorism deaths worldwide. She said attacks in West Africa’s coastal areas have risen by 250% in two years, and 14,000 schools in the Sahel closed by 2024 due to violence, putting children’s futures at risk.

‎She also warned that social media is fueling division and hate, calling it a new “battleground.”She spoke about artificial intelligence (AI), which can help with things like predicting food shortages or finding landmines but warned it could harm human rights if used for critical decisions. Mohammed also linked climate change to conflict, pointing to the shrinking of Lake Chad, which has displaced over three million people.

‎Mohammed stressed that security, development, and human rights must work together. “Africa will not sit back,” she said. “We will take control of our security and use technology for peace.” She called for unity to protect Africa’s 1.5 billion people.The forum, attended by defense leaders from 52 of Africa’s 54 countries, was a major event. Former Guinea Prime Minister Lansana Kouyate said peace is essential for progress and suggested new ways to fund security.

‎Burkina Faso and Mali did not attend due to tensions with the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) after forming a new alliance with Niger.Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, called for modernizing African forces with better cyber defenses and local technology. He said Africa must unite to create a safer continent and highlighted Nigeria’s efforts in peacekeeping and fighting terrorism.

‎The summit, running through Wednesday, aims to build a new plan for African security cooperation. The message from Abuja is clear: Africa must lead its own path to peace.

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‎Jarvis Defends Peller Over Public Backlash: With Time, He Will Change

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‎By Prosper Mene 

‎Popular Nigerian TikTok content creator, Jarvis, has come to the defense of her partner, Peller, following intense criticism caused by a viral video showing a public altercation between the two. The video, which captured Peller pushing Jarvis into a car, ignited a firestorm of reactions on social media, with many accusing him of abusive behavior.

‎Jarvis, however, has dismissed these claims, urging Nigerians to stop spreading false narratives and expressing confidence that Peller will grow from the incident.

‎In a response shared on August 25, 2025, Jarvis clarified that the altercation was not indicative of abuse, emphasizing her autonomy in the relationship. “I’m old enough to take up my responsibilities and know what I want,” she said. “The pushing was a no-no, but I believe he will change.” Jarvis further explained that the incident stemmed from Peller’s attempt to protect her from street touts, known locally as “agberos,” and that both are still “a work in progress.”

‎‎Peller, who faced significant backlash after the video surfaced, issued a statement acknowledging his mistake and expressing regret. He insisted that his actions were not abusive, stating, “I can never beat a woman. I was only trying to protect her from agberos, and she wasn’t listening to me.” Jarvis amplified this sentiment, dismissing speculations that her relationship with Peller is driven by fame or money. “I’m in a relationship with him because I love him, not because of fame or money. We are both coming up. Which fame? Which money?” she said, addressing critics directly.

‎The couple’s response has sparked mixed reactions across social media platforms, where some users support Jarvis’s stance, while others remain skeptical, questioning her defense of Peller’s actions.

‎Jarvis also addressed her personal growth, admitting that she, too, is learning to control her reactions. “If it was before, as he pushed me, I would have raised my hand back. But I’m trying to act like a lady,” she said, citing her belief in mutual growth within their relationship. She urged fans and critics alike to respect her choices, stating, “I decide what I want. I know what I want, and I go for it.”

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