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Super Falcons Ready for WAFCON Glory, Ajibade Urges NFF Support

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By Prosper Mene 

Super Falcons captain Rasheedat Ajibade has declared the team’s readiness to reclaim the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title at the 2024 tournament in Morocco, while issuing a clarion call to the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to provide comprehensive support to ensure the team’s success. The statement spotlights the squad’s ambition to secure a record-extending 10th continental crown from July 5 to 26.

Ajibade, speaking on the Super Falcons Show, expressed confidence in the team’s preparation and determination to overcome past challenges. “We all understand what’s at stake,” she said, emphasizing the squad’s focus on reclaiming the title last won in 2018. The Super Falcons, nine-time WAFCON champions, are drawn in Group B alongside Tunisia, Algeria, and Botswana, with their campaign kicking off against Tunisia on July 6.

The captain’s comments follow a thrilling 2-0 win against Cameroon’s Indomitable Lionesses in a friendly match on June 3 at the MKO Abiola Stadium in Abeokuta, which boosted team morale.

Ajibade, who scored both goals, hailed the team’s spirit and fan support as critical to their performance. However, she subtly warned the NFF to address longstanding issues, including inadequate welfare and logistical support, which have frustrated players in previous tournaments. “There’s a lot of confidence in camp, and we’re committed to our goal, but we need everything in place to succeed,” she noted.

The Super Falcons’ preparations, dubbed “Mission X” by the NFF, aims to restore Nigeria’s dominance after South Africa claimed the 2022 WAFCON title. The team’s recent friendly against Cameroon, though reduced from two matches to one due to logistical challenges, showcased their strength, with standout performances from players like Rinsola Babajide, Deborah Abiodun, and goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie. Head coach Justine Madugu described the win as a “psychological boost” but louded Ajibade’s call for improved support to fine-tune strategies ahead of the tournament.

Ajibade’s leadership has been vital, both on and off the pitch. Her brace against Cameroon and her vocal advocacy for better treatment reflect her growing influence as she prepares to lead Nigeria in Morocco. The 25-year-old, who recently bid an emotional farewell to Atlético Madrid, is also weighing her next career move, with reports linking her to a club in the United States post-WAFCON.

Despite their historical dominance, with 12 consecutive years in the global top 40, the Super Falcons face stiff competition from rising teams like South Africa, Morocco, and Zambia. Ajibade, however, remains unfazed, asserting that the squad’s talent and depth can weather any storm. “The Super Falcons is a very big squad and a very talented squad,” she said, addressing the absence of key players like Asisat Oshoala in recent matches.

With a friendly against Portugal looming on June 23, Nigeria’s Super Falcons are concentrating on strengthening teamwork and gaining momentum. Led by Ajibade and buoyed by “Mission X” fan enthusiasm, the team is primed for success if the NFF fully backs their captain’s plea for consistent support.

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NDDC Reaffirms Commitment to Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment in Niger Delta

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By Prosper Mene 

The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has reaffirmed its dedication to advancing gender equality and empowering women across the Niger Delta region. This pledge was made during a three-day workshop held in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, to commemorate International Women’s Day, showcasing the Commission’s ongoing efforts to foster inclusive development.

Speaking at the event, Sir Victor Antai, NDDC’s Executive Director of Projects, emphasized the Commission’s alignment with the Renewed Hope Initiative, championed by Nigeria’s First Lady, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s national agenda. “The NDDC is committed to creating opportunities that elevate women’s status in education, health, economic empowerment, and governance,” Antai stated, stressing the Commission’s vision for a balanced society where women are not only included but trusted and empowered.

The workshop, which brought together stakeholders from across the region, focused on building skills, confidence, and visibility for women, positioning with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 5 (Gender Equality) and 10 (Reduced Inequalities). Earlier this month, NDDC Managing Director Dr. Samuel Ogbuku described women in the Niger Delta as “catalysts for economic growth, social change, and community resilience,” reinforcing the Commission’s belief that empowering women is key to sustainable development.

The NDDC’s initiatives include expanding its “Help the Girl Child” program to communities in Imo and Bayelsa States, providing education and resources to young girls, and supporting policies that promote women’s leadership and economic participation. These efforts aim to address systemic barriers and create transformative opportunities for women in the region.

Stakeholders at the event praised the NDDC’s inclusive approach, with many calling for sustained efforts to ensure women’s contributions continue to drive progress in the Niger Delta. As the Commission marks 25 years of impact, its focus on gender equality cites a promising future for women and girls in the region.

 

 

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University of Lagos Issues Urgent Warning Over Fraudsters Impersonating Vice-Chancellor in N13.8 Billion Ponzi Scheme

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By Prosper Mene 

The University of Lagos (UNILAG) has issued a public alert following reports of fraudsters impersonating its Vice-Chancellor, Professor Folasade Ogunsola, in a sophisticated procurement scam linked to a broader N13.8 billion Ponzi scheme. The warning comes as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) remanded Precious Williams, a director of Glossalalia Nigeria Ltd. and Pelenged Nigeria Ltd., in Port Harcourt for her alleged role in the Ponzi scheme, raising concerns about the increasing prevalence of financial fraud in Nigeria.

According to a statement released by UNILAG’s Head of the Communication Unit, Mrs. Adejoke Alaga-Ibraheem, scammers have been targeting individuals through social media platforms, including LinkedIn, Facebook, X, and WhatsApp, posing as Professor Ogunsola. The fraudsters are orchestrating sham procurement processes, falsely claiming to represent the university in deals involving laptops and computers. They entice victims with promises of a 60/40 profit-sharing arrangement, demanding upfront payments and secrecy, and directing communication through private email addresses rather than official UNILAG domains. “This fraudulent activity is not only illegal but deeply concerning,” the statement noted.

The university emphasized that it adheres strictly to transparent and competitive procurement processes in line with Nigerian procurement laws. UNILAG urges the public to verify any suspicious claims or requests by contacting the university through official channels. The University has escalated the matter to law enforcement agencies and is cooperating fully with investigations to bring the perpetrators to justice,” the statement added.

The UNILAG scam exploits the university’s reputation and the authority of Professor Ogunsola, the institution’s first female Vice-Chancellor, appointed in October 2022. Previous reports have highlighted similar impersonation attempts, with at least five fake Facebook accounts claiming to be Ogunsola’s in 2024. One such account offered job slots at UNILAG for N3 million, prompting warnings from the university and Ogunsola herself.

Victims of the Ponzi scheme, including some who gathered outside the Port Harcourt court, expressed devastation. “I sold my land to invest N5.5 million, believing it would secure my family’s future,” said Chukwuma Eze, a 47-year-old trader from Lagos. “Now, we’re left with nothing but promises.” The EFCC noted that Ponzi schemes have cost Nigerians over N911 billion ($589 million) in the past 23 years, underscoring the urgency of public awareness and regulatory action.

UNILAG’s statement reaffirmed its commitment to integrity and transparency, urging vigilance among the public. The university’s cooperation with law enforcement aims to dismantle the fraudulent networks exploiting its name. Meanwhile, the EFCC continues its investigation into Williams and her associates, with the next hearing scheduled for July 10, 2025, in Port Harcourt.

 

 

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Precious Williams Remanded in Port Harcourt Over Alleged N13.8 Billion Ponzi Scheme

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By Prosper Mene 

A Federal High Court in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, has ordered the remand of Precious Williams, a director of Glossalalia Nigeria Ltd. and Pelenged Nigeria Ltd., in connection with an alleged N13.8 billion Ponzi scheme that defrauded numerous investors. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) arraigned Williams on multiple charges of fraud, money laundering, and operating an illegal investment scheme, following a series of complaints from victims across Nigeria.

The EFCC’s Port Harcourt Zonal Directorate revealed that Williams and her companies allegedly lured investors with promises of exorbitant returns, ranging from 20% to 50% monthly, on investments in purported cryptocurrency and forex trading ventures. Investigations, however, uncovered that the companies operated a classic Ponzi scheme, using funds from new investors to pay returns to earlier participants, with no legitimate underlying business to sustain the payouts. The scheme reportedly collapsed in early 2025, leaving thousands of investors, including retirees and small-scale entrepreneurs, with significant financial losses.

According to the EFCC, the N13.8 billion figure represents the total amount allegedly collected from investors between 2022 and 2025. Prosecutors presented evidence of bank transactions, promotional materials, and victim testimonies, which detailed how Williams and her associates used aggressive marketing tactics, including social media campaigns and religious endorsements, to gain trust. The EFCC further alleged that a significant portion of the funds was diverted for personal use, including the acquisition of luxury properties and vehicles.

During the court session, presided over by Justice E.A. Obile, the prosecution argued for Williams’ remand, citing the severity of the charges and the risk of her interfering with ongoing investigations. The defense, led by Williams’ counsel, requested bail, arguing that their client was a first-time offender with strong community ties. However, the court denied the bail application, ordering Williams to be held at the Port Harcourt Correctional Centre pending the next hearing scheduled for July 10, 2025.

The case has garnered widespread concern in Nigeria, where Ponzi schemes have proliferated amid economic hardships and rising unemployment. A recent report by the EFCC highlighted that Nigerians have lost over N911 billion ($589 million) to such scams over the past 23 years, with perpetrators exploiting financial illiteracy and desperation for quick wealth. The Williams case is among the largest of its kind in recent years, drawing comparisons to the infamous MMM Nigeria collapse in 2016.

Victims of the alleged scheme, many of whom gathered outside the courthouse, expressed frustration and despair. “I invested my life savings, N4 million, hoping to secure my children’s future,” said Esther Okon, a 52-year-old widow from Akwa Ibom. “Now, it’s all gone, and we’re left with nothing.” Community leaders and financial experts have called for stricter regulations on investment schemes and increased public awareness to prevent similar incidents.

The EFCC has vowed to intensify its crackdown on financial crimes, with ongoing investigations into other individuals and entities linked to Williams’ operations. The agency also urged the public to report suspicious investment schemes and verify the legitimacy of financial institutions before investing.

 

 

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ASCON Director General Urges Attitudinal Shift in Public Service

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By Prosper Mene 

The Director General of the Administrative Staff College of Nigeria (ASCON), Mrs. Cecilia Gayya, has called for a transformative change in the mindset and work ethics of public servants to enhance efficiency and service delivery in Nigeria’s public sector. While speaking at a recent training program in Lagos, Gayya emphasized the need for a renewed commitment to professionalism, accountability, and excellence among civil servants.

“Attitudinal change is critical to reforming the public service. We must move away from complacency and embrace a culture of diligence, transparency, and innovation,” Gayya stated. She highlighted that outdated practices and resistance to change have hindered progress in government institutions, urging public servants to adopt a proactive approach to problem-solving and decision-making.

She stressed that training programs at ASCON are designed to equip civil servants with modern skills and a service-oriented mindset to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving society.

Participants at the event, including senior government officials, louded Gayya’s sentiments, noting that a shift in attitude could bridge the gap between policy formulation and implementation. The call to action aligns with broader national goals to improve governance and public trust in institutions.

Gayya also urged public servants to leverage technology and embrace continuous learning to stay relevant in their roles. “The world is changing, and we must change with it to deliver value to the Nigerian people,” she added.

The event concluded with a renewed pledge from attendees to drive positive change in their respective agencies, signaling a potential turning point for Nigeria’s public service sector.

 

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19-Year-Old Nigerian Innovator Clinches Top Prize at WE Innovate, Aims to Revolutionize Agriculture and Save the Planet

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At just 19 years old, Nigerian-born innovator Ifeoluwa Afolayan, a Master’s student in Design Engineering at Imperial College London and the Royal College of Arts, has emerged as one of the first-prize winners at WE Innovate, Imperial College London’s flagship pre-accelerator programme supporting women-led ventures. Her team was awarded €15,000 to further develop their innovative agricultural initiative, which aims to transform farming practices and contribute to a sustainable planet.

The solution, Aeropod (by Muju Earth) is a capsule designed to aerate and enrich soil that activates in response to heavy rain, helping to provide a climate-proof alternative to intensive farming methods.

Ifeoluwa, founder of Aeropod, alongside her talented team members — Yuchen Cai, Alex Clark, and Ocean Hu — pitched their groundbreaking project at WE Innovate. The programme supports the next generation of women entrepreneurs by helping them develop new businesses through masterclasses, business coaching, expert support, and peer mentoring.

The team’s winning concept garnered widespread acclaim for its potential to enhance crop resilience against climate change, reduce environmental impact, and empower local farmers with innovative technology— while promoting environmental sustainability. The success at WE Innovate marks a significant milestone in their journey to make a tangible difference in the United Kingdom, Nigeria, and globally.

“I’m incredibly honoured to be part of WE Innovate and to win first prize,” said Ifeoluwa Afolayan. “This initiative has the power to revolutionise agriculture in Nigeria, helping farmers adapt to climate change and ensuring food security for future generations. Our goal is to create solutions that not only transform farming but also help save our planet from the adverse effects of climate change.”

Ifeoluwa and her team plan to partner with a Nigerian firm to expand their initiative, leveraging the €15,000 grant and mentorship support from WE Innovate to scale their impact across the region. Their project aims to introduce climate-resilient farming techniques, innovative crop management systems, and sustainable resource use to Nigerian farmers.

Ifeoluwa believes that collaboration with Nigerian industry partners will accelerate the deployment of their solutions, creating new opportunities for local farmers and contributing to Nigeria’s efforts in achieving sustainable agricultural development.

“This achievement is a testament to the power of innovation and resilience. Our project aims to transform agriculture in Nigeria, making it more sustainable and climate-proof. We believe that with the right support and partnerships, we can create lasting change that benefits farmers and helps safeguard our planet for future generations,” Ifeoluwa stated.

Aeropod (by Muju Earth), a soil regeneration startup from Imperial College London, and Dainty Grace, an innovative lingerie startup from Queen’s University Belfast (QUB), each won first prizes of £15,000 in the WE Innovate 2025 Grand Final.

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Women Bear the Brunt as Herders’ Attacks Claim Up to 200 Lives in Benue

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By Prosper Mene 

A recent devastating attack by suspected armed herders has left an estimated 200 people feared dead in Yelewata and Daudu communities of Guma Local Government Area, Benue State, with women and children among the hardest hit. The brutal assault, which occurred late Friday night, has caused outrage and grief, particularly among women who are mourning the loss of loved ones and grappling with displacement and trauma.

Local sources report that the assailants stormed the communities in a well-planned attack, targeting vulnerable groups, including Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), women, and children. Among the harrowing accounts, one woman in Yelewata reportedly lost five children and her mother in a single night of violence, a tragedy that has left the community reeling.

Women in the affected areas have been at the forefront of both suffering and resilience. In Apa Local Government Area, just weeks prior, women staged protests against the ongoing killings, demanding urgent action to protect their communities. The June 3 demonstration, underscored the growing desperation among women who face constant threats while trying to sustain their families in an agrarian region known as Nigeria’s “Food Basket.”

The attacks have compounded the challenges for women in Benue, where herder-farmer clashes have disrupted farming activities, leaving many female-headed households without livelihoods. “They killed women and even children as young as two years old,” a resident of Gwer West told the Daily Trust, describing a recent attack in the region. The violence has forced hundreds of women and their families to flee, with many taking refuge in makeshift shelters or nearby communities, further exposing them to risks of exploitation and insecurity.

Community leaders and eyewitnesses describe the attackers’ brutality, with women often targeted while tending to daily tasks or protecting their children. In a related incident in Apa LGA, 14 female traders were kidnapped while returning from a market in Enugu State, their whereabouts still unknown. The loss of women, who are often the backbone of rural economies, has deepened the crisis, with families like those in Ankpali burying 11 members in a single tragedy.

The Benue State Police Command has deployed security forces to restore order, but women in Yelewata and Daudu express frustration over the lack of proactive protection. “We are tired of running, tired of losing our children,” said a displaced mother in Yelewata, who requested anonymity for fear of reprisals. The absence of a robust security presence, despite nearby military checkpoints, has fueled accusations of neglect, with residents calling on Governor Hyacinth Alia and federal authorities to intervene decisively.

As the death toll rises and search efforts continue, women in Benue are demanding justice and safety.

The crisis cites the urgent need for policies like the 2017 open grazing ban to be enforced, as women and their communities face an escalating cycle of violence that threatens their survival.

 

 

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NAPTIP Rescues 14-Year-Old Girl from Severe Domestic Abuse

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By Prosper Mene 

The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) has successfully rescued a 14-year-old girl from severe domestic abuse in Sokoto State, authorities announced on Saturday, June 14, 2025. The victim, identified as the firstborn and only female child of Malam Usman Aliyu, was allegedly subjected to maltreatment, starvation, and exploitation by a prominent Abuja socialite and wife of a high-ranking public official in Sokoto.

According to a statement by NAPTIP Press Officer Vincent Adekoye, the girl, named Bashariyya, was discovered in a deplorable state by concerned neighbors, who reported her condition to the Network Against Child Trafficking, Abuse and Labour. The report was swiftly escalated to NAPTIP, prompting immediate action. The victim was found malnourished, unbathed, and emotionally distressed, unable to walk and showing signs of fainting due to extreme starvation and dehumanization.

The statement revealed that Bashariyya had been locked up for weeks, enduring severe abuse after being recruited by the suspect. When NAPTIP intervened, the suspect allegedly hired locals to block access to the girl, complicating rescue efforts. Hospitals in Sokoto were initially reluctant to admit her due to the severity of her condition, but NAPTIP persisted in securing emergency medical care for the victim.

Adekoye disclosed that the suspect, fearing the girl might die, returned her to Sokoto and handed her over to an individual named Maryam, claiming Bashariyya had “spiritual issues.” NAPTIP’s intervention ensured the girl’s rescue and ongoing medical treatment. The agency is now investigating the case, with efforts underway to bring the perpetrator to justice.

NAPTIP’s Director-General, Binta Bello, condemned the incident, emphasizing the agency’s commitment to combating human trafficking and violence against persons, regardless of the status of those involved. “No one is above the law,” Bello stated, vowing to hold all perpetrators accountable.

This rescue operation shows NAPTIP’s ongoing efforts to protect vulnerable individuals, following recent successes, including the rescue of a two-year-old girl trafficked from Abuja to Abia State and seven young women from a trafficking ring in Abuja. The agency continues to call for public vigilance to report suspected cases of abuse and trafficking.

The Sokoto State government and local authorities have been urged to collaborate with NAPTIP to address rising cases of abuse and ensure justice for victims like Bashariyya.

 

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BBNaija 2025: Tolanibaj Shares Five Essential Tips for Aspiring Season 10 Housemates

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By Prosper Mene 

As anticipation builds for the 10th season of Big Brother Naija (BBNaija), former housemate Tolani Shobajo, popularly known as Tolanibaj, has dished out a lifeline of advice to aspiring contestants. The reality TV star and DJ, who rose to fame during the 2020 Lockdown edition, shared a video on her TikTok page, delivering five key survival tips for those vying for a spot in the iconic Big Brother house.

Drawing from her experience in Season 5 and the All-Stars edition, Tolanibaj emphasized the importance of clarity and confidence for contestants entering the house. “Know who you are and what you bring to the table,” she urged, encouraging aspirants to showcase their unique personalities to stand out in the competitive environment.

Her second tip focused on appearance, advising housemates to always look their best. “Your style can attract fashion endorsement deals,” Tolanibaj noted, highlighting how a polished image could open doors to post-show opportunities.

In her third and perhaps most candid point, Tolanibaj cautioned against mistaking housemates for friends. “Your housemates are not your real friends; they are teammates and colleagues,” she stressed. Reflecting on her own journey, she advised contestants to stay grounded and return to their true friends and family after the show, as relationships formed in the house may not last.

Her fourth tip stressed the need for a solid plan for life after BBNaija. Tolanibaj warned that the spotlight fades quickly and urged contestants to prepare for the future, noting that prize money payouts are gradual and should not be relied upon for reckless decisions. “The real challenge begins after eviction or when the show ends,” she said.

Finally, Tolanibaj encouraged aspiring housemates to approach relationships in the house with caution, reminding them to stay strategic and focused on their goals.

Her advice is timely as hundreds of hopefuls prepare for auditions, with the promise of a ₦100 million prize and other rewards like cars and endorsement deals up for grabs.

While we await BBNaija Season 10, Tolanibaj’s words serve as a timely reminder for contestants to stay authentic, strategic, and prepared for the whirlwind of fame that awaits.

 

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Outrage Grows Over Brutal Assault of Women at Port Harcourt Nightclub

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By Prosper Mene 

Outrage is growing as Nigerians demand justice for three young women who were allegedly brutally assaulted at Black Box nightclub in Port Harcourt during a birthday celebration. The incident, which has sparked widespread condemnation on social media, came to light after the victims shared harrowing videos detailing their ordeal.

The women, who had reserved a table at the popular nightclub to celebrate a friend’s birthday, claim they were attacked by a male patron identified as Maduba Okechi Christian, CEO of Ceemore Global Limited. According to one victim, the altercation began when the man, who joined their table uninvited, demanded they not film him. Despite their compliance, he allegedly launched a violent attack. One woman suffered a severe head injury after being struck with a bottle, another lost a front tooth after being punched, and a third was reportedly stripped and pushed down a staircase by the man and his security detail.

In a video circulating online, one victim, visibly injured, said, “All we did was go out as girls. That’s our only ‘offense.’ Is every girl in Nigeria now assumed to be a prostitute?” The women also alleged the assailant is a regular at the club with a history of similar incidents, raising concerns about safety in public spaces.

The Rivers State Police Command has responded, confirming an investigation is underway. On Friday, June 13, 2025, the command stated via its social media handle that the Black Box manager and the alleged suspect have been invited for questioning, urging the victims to provide statements. The Divisional Police Officer in the jurisdiction has expedited action, though the suspect and nightclub owner reportedly failed to appear at the station on Friday. Adebayo Steve, Rivers State Director of Behind Bar Human Rights Foundation, confirmed two victims visited the police station, while two others remain hospitalized.

A man identifying himself as the founder of Black Box, using the TikTok handle @datfairboy, issued a personal statement condemning the assault. “No one has the right to inflict harm on anyone, especially when there was no threat,” he said, noting he had visited the victims in hospital and reported the matter to authorities.

The incident has ignited a firestorm online, with advocacy groups and influencers amplifying the victims’ calls for justice. Netizens expressed anger over the perceived lack of safety for women, with one X user, @dglasses_girl, writing, “Women can’t exist in peace in this crazy country.” The hashtag #PortHarcourtAssault is trending as Nigerians demand the suspect’s arrest and prosecution.

The case sheds light on ongoing concerns about gender-based violence in Rivers State, where reports of assaults and inadequate justice responses have fueled public frustration. The police investigation and the victims’ recovery remain under close scrutiny as the nation awaits accountability.

 

 

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